Levels and health risk assessment of twenty-one current-use pesticides in urban and riverside waters of the Brazilian Amazon Basin

In Brazil, the favorable weather conditions and abundant land contribute to the thriving agricultural production. Brazilian crops extensively employ pesticides due to their high efficacy, cost-effectiveness, and permissive regulatory framework. However, pesticide use also endangers water resources, animal organisms, and human health. Due to the lack of data on pesticide use in the Amazonas forest-based Brazil, the present study aimed to assess the levels of twenty-one current-use pesticides (CUPs) from five different classes in river waters collected from urban and riverside areas in this region. Moreover, the non-carcinogenic risks associated with water consumption were also characterized. Thirteen CUPs were detected in concentrations above the limit of detection (LOD) in at least one of the water samples, and most pesticides were detected in riverside areas. In contrast, only 18% of the analyzed samples were considered "clean," with only one compound detected. Fenitrothion showed the highest concentration, with a mean value of 4.86 ng/mL (0.30-14.3 ng/mL). Up to 33% of the samples showed levels of fipronil above the LOD, an issue of environmental and human health concern, mainly because of the adverse effects observed in honeybees. Despite this, the human health risk assessment showed a target hazard quotient below one (HQ < 1) in adults for all substances, suggesting that pesticide exposure through water consumption should not mean risk for the riverside populations. Taking into account the large extension of Brazil, as well as its different agricultural practices throughout the country, it would be of great importance to conduct extensive research in other areas. It would help to gain knowledge in this field and to promote eco-friendly alternatives to mitigate pesticide use and, consequently, to reduce their potential adverse effects on human health and the ecosystems.

Human exposure to elements through consumption of raw and cooked fish in an urban region of the central Brazilian Amazon biome: Health risks

Fish is an important source of animal protein for local communities in the Amazon basin, whose food safety must be assured. However, certain potential toxicants elements, can bioaccumulate in fish species, which inhabit anthropogenically polluted waters, ultimately posing a risk to human health. In the present study, the concentrations of nine elements (Al, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn) were determined in raw and cooked samples of eight fish species consumed in Santarém (northern Brazil, Amazon biome). The potential for non- carcinogenic human health risks linked to the consumption of cooked fish were evaluated for adults and children in two different scenarios. Four carnivores, three omnivores and one detritivore, all of them regularly marketed and consumed by the Santarém population, were the target species. The safety reference values set by national and international guidelines for humans, in both raw and cooked preparations, were used. In most cases, the cooking process showed a trend to increase elements concentrations compared to raw samples, however the differences were not significant. Moreover, the risk assessment showed danger for children in relation to Hg from the consumption of fish, in both scenarios evaluated. For adults, in one of the scenarios, there was a health risk associated to Hg as a result of carnivorous fish consumption. In a context of combined exposure to all elements, children were at risk when consuming fish, especially carnivorous and omnivorous species. For adults, the mixture of elements posed a risk to health human only for carnivorous fish consumption. The results reveal an environmental scenario of Hg contamination, which requires monitoring actions to preserve the aquatic biodiversity and human health in the Brazilian Amazon biome.

Air concentrations of trace elements in a municipality under the influence of Tarragona petrochemical complex: Human health risks

One of the largest petrochemical complexes of southern Europe is located in Tarragona County (Catalonia, Spain). Despite environmental monitoring is routinely conducted in the area, the long-term occurrence of airborne trace elements has been poorly investigated. In the present study, the concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and vanadium (V) were analysed in air samples collected in El Morell, a town potentially impacted by the petrochemical. Air samples were simultaneously collected in the town of Cambrils, as a background site. Meteorological data and retro trajectories analysis were used to evaluate the impact of the petrochemical industry on the levels of trace elements in air. Subsequently, human health risks due to inhalation exposure to the trace elements were also assessed. Except for V, air concentrations were significantly higher near the oil refinery than the background levels. Human health risks were also estimated to be higher in the vicinity of the petrochemical complex. In turn, air inhalation of Pb and V was higher than their dietary intakes. The present data should be considered only as preliminary, since the sampling was taken during only three weeks, which is an insufficient period to extract reliable conclusions. Further long-term studies should be focused on assessing the influence of temporary variables, such as meteorological conditions and fugitive or sporadic emissions.

Evaluation of exposure to multiple organic pollutants in riparian communities of the Brazilian Amazon: Screening levels and potential health risks

Organic pollutants are widely distributed in the environment. Due to their physical and chemical characteristics, they tend to be biomagnified in food chains, mainly in aquatic organisms. Therefore, food consumption is a significant route of lifelong exposure. Although the Amazon River basin contains the highest freshwater biodiversity on Earth, there is scarce literature focusing on the levels of organic pollutants in the local population. The present study was aimed at assessing the levels of several environmental pollutants (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, bisphenols, parabens, and benzophenones) in urine samples from riverside communities along the Tapajós and Amazon Rivers in the Brazilian Amazon region. The results show a 100 % detection of naphthalene metabolites (namely, 1-hydroxy-naphthalene (1OH-NAP), 2-hydroxy-naphthalene (2OH-NAP)), with the highest levels belonging to benzylparaben (BzP) (17.3 ng/mL). Gender-specific analysis revealed that women had significantly higher levels of certain PAH metabolites (i.e., 1OH-NAP and 2-hydroxy-fluorene (2OH-FLU)) than men. In turn, most of the evaluated compounds were higher in urine samples from people living near the Amazon River, which presents increased traffic of boats and ships than the Tapajós River. On the other hand, the human health risk assessment suggested that all communities are at risk of suffering non-carcinogenic effects from exposure to PAHs. At the same time, they are also at risk of carcinogenic effects from exposure to benzo[a]pyrene metabolites. Thus, further studies are needed in order to evaluate the potential health effects of exposure to a mixture of these organic pollutants and other contaminants present in the area, such as mercury.

Levels of organic pollutants and metals/metalloids in infant formula marketed in Brazil: Risks to early-life health

Infant formula intake is recommended to ensure comprehensive nutritional and caloric fulfillment when exclusive breastfeeding is not possible. However, similarly to breast milk, infant formulas may also contain pollutants capable of inducing endocrine-disrupting and neurotoxic effects. Thus, considering the sensitivity of their developing physiological systems and that infants have heightened susceptibility to environmental influences, this study was aimed at assessing the contents of essential elements, and inorganic and organic pollutants in infant formulas marketed in Brazil. Additionally, health risk assessments for selected contaminants were also performed. Measured contents of essential elements (Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, Cu, Se, and Zn) were congruent with label information. Nevertheless, some toxic elements (Pb, Cd, As, Ni, and Al) were also detected. Notably, in the upper-bound scenario, Pb and Cd surpassed established threshold values when comparing the estimated daily intake (EDI) and tolerable daily intake (TDI - 3.57 and 0.36 μg/kg bw, respectively). Bisphenol P (BPP) and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) were frequently detected (84 % detection rate both) with elevated contents (BPP median = 4.28 ng/g and BBP median = 0.24 ng/g). Furthermore, a positive correlation (0.41) was observed between BPP and BBP, implying a potential co-occurrence within packaging materials. Methyl-paraben also correlated positively with BBP (0.57), showing a detection rate of 53 %. The cumulative PBDE contents ranged from 0.33 to 1.62 ng/g, with BDE-154 and BDE-47 the dominant congeners. When comparing EDI values with TDIs, all organic pollutants remained below the thresholds across all exposure scenarios. Moreover, non-carcinogenic risks were below the threshold (HQ > 1) when dividing the EDIs by the respective reference doses for chronic exposure. While the current findings may suggest that infant formula intake poses no immediate risk in terms of the evaluated chemicals, it remains imperative to conduct further research to safeguard the health of infants considering other chemicals, as well as their potential cumulative effects.

Effects of an organic diet intervention on the levels of organophosphorus metabolites in an adult cohort

Pesticides are a group of organic compounds used to control weeds or insect infestations in agriculture. Diet is the major route of human exposure to these compounds, which can cause serious health problems, even when the intake occurs at low concentrations. Hence, the consumption of organic food is an appropriate strategy to minimize the exposure to pesticides. A prospective, randomized study was conducted to assess the impact of an organic dietary intervention on the levels of urinary dialkyl phosphates (DAP). A screening of 204 pesticides was also carried out in order to confirm the absence of these compounds in organic food. The analytical results showed that only 20 of the 204 pesticides (9.8 %) had concentrations above the limit of quantification in one or more samples of the organic food consumed by the participants. It is substantially lower than the levels of pesticides found in other studies analysing conventional food, confirming the diet as suitable for the organic dietary intervention. A general reduction of most DAP metabolites in urine was found, being significant (p < 0.05) the decrease of dimethyl phosphate (DMP) (0.49 µg/g creatinine in Day 1 vs. 0.062 µg/g creatinine in Day 6), dimethyl thiophosphate (DMTP) (0.49 µg/g creatinine in Day 1 vs. 0.093 µg/g creatinine in Day 6) and diethyl phosphate (DEP) (0.28 µg/g creatinine in Day 1 vs. 0.12 µg/g creatinine in Day 6). In addition, the molar score for the total dimethyl DAP (ΣMP) and total dialkyl phosphate (ΣDAP) also showed significant differences after changing a conventional diet by an organic diet, being reduced from 0.008 µmol/g to 0.002 µmol/g for ΣMP and from 0.012 µmol/g to 0.003 µmol/g for ΣDAP. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that evaluates both the impact of an organic diet in the exposure to DAP and the levels of 204 pesticides in the organic food provided to the participants. In summary, the consumption of organic products decreases the dietary intake of pesticides, thus reducing also the potential adverse effects on human health.

Urinary concentrations of heavy metals in pregnant women living near a petrochemical area according to the industrial activity

BACKGROUND

The progressive industrialization has resulted in an increase in heavy metal pollution in the environment, which has a dangerous impact on human health. Prenatal exposure to heavy metals, even at very low concentrations, may be especially harmful to pregnant women and their children. Different industrial activities can contribute to heavy metal pollution in a specific area.

OBJECTIVE

1) To explore the concentrations of heavy metals in urine samples of pregnant women, and 2) to evaluate the potential effect of different industrial activities in Tarragona (Spain).

METHODS

Urinary levels of four heavy metals (nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb)) from 368 pregnant women recruited in the ECLIPSES study were analyzed. Home addresses and all the industries potentially releasing heavy metals were geo-referenced. Buffer zones were established within a 1.5, 3, and 5 km radius at the center of each industry. Subsequently, the number of participants living in and out of each buffer zone was recorded.

RESULTS

Urinary levels of Ni and Cd, but not those of Hg and Pb, were obviously increased in pregnant women living near most of the industrial sites. After adjustment for potential co-variates, only Cd showed notable differences according to the industrial activity. Compared to women living outside the buffer, Cd levels were increased in those living within 1.5 and 3 km of chemical industries, within 5 km of energy industries, within 1.5, 3, and 5 km of mineral industries, and within 3 and 5 km of metal processing industries.

CONCLUSION

Among the analyzed heavy metals, Cd showed an increasing trend in urinary concentrations in women living near chemical, energy, mineral, and metal processing industries. This study highlights the need to develop legislative measures to minimize Cd exposure, especially by sensitive populations. Moreover, additive or synergistic effects of co-exposure to other air pollutants should not be disregarded.

Assessment of urinary aromatic amines in Brazilian pregnant women and association with DNA damage: Influence of genetic diversity, lifestyle, and environmental and socioeconomic factors

Aromatic amines (AAs) are polar organic chemicals with a wide environmental distribution originating from various sources, such as tobacco smoke, diesel exhaust, and dermal absorption from textile products with azo dyes. The toxicity profile of AAs is directly related to the amino group's metabolic activation and the generation of the reactive intermediate, forming DNA adducts and potential carcinogenicity. Urinary levels of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG) are an important biomarker of DNA damage. Since AAs have been shown to cross the placental barrier, being a risk factor for adverse birth outcomes, prenatal exposure is a great public health concern. The present study aimed to measure the urinary levels of 58 AAs in Brazilian pregnant women (n = 300) and investigated the impact of this exposure on DNA damage by quantifying 8OHdG levels. The influence of tobacco smoke exposure and dermal absorption of AAs by clothes on urinary levels was also assessed. The results showed a 100% detection rate for eight AAs, two of them regulated by the European Union (2,6-dimethylaniline and 2,4-diaminotolune). Hundreds of AAs may be derived from aniline, which here showed a median of 1.38 ng/mL. Aniline also correlated positively with 2,6-dimethylaniline, p-aminophenol, and other AAs, suggesting exposure to multiple sources. The present findings suggest that both tobacco smoke and dermal contact with clothes containing azo dyes are potential sources that might strongly influence urinary levels of AAs in Brazilian pregnant women. A multiple regression linear model (R2 = 0.772) suggested that some regulated AAs (i.e., 2-naphthylamine and 4-aminobiphenyl), nicotine, smoke habit, age, and Brazilian region could induce DNA damage occurrence, increasing the levels of 8OHdG. Given the limited available data on human exposure to carcinogenic AAs, as well as the lack of toxicological information on those non-regulated, further studies focused on measuring their levels in human fluids and the potential exposure sources are clearly essential.

Multidrug-resistant Enterobacter spp. in wastewater and surface water: Molecular characterization of β-lactam resistance and metal tolerance genes

Among the ESKAPE group pathogens, Enterobacter spp. is an opportunistic Gram-negative bacillus, widely dispersed in the environment, that causes infections. In the present study, samples of hospital wastewater, raw and treated urban wastewater, as well as surface receiving water, were collected to assess the occurrence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacter spp. A molecular characterization of β-lactam antibiotic resistance and metal tolerance genes was performed. According to identification by MALDI-TOF MS, 14 isolates were obtained: 7 E. bugandensis, 5 E. kobei, and 2 E. cloacae. The isolates showed resistance mainly to β-lactam antibiotics, including those used to treat infections caused by MDR bacteria. Multiple antibiotic resistance index was calculated for all isolates. It allowed verify whether sampling points showed a high risk due to antibiotic resistant Enterobacter spp., as well as to determine if the isolates have been in environments with a frequent antibiotic use. Twelve isolates showed β-lactam antibiotic resistance gene, being the blaKPC widely detected. Regarding metal tolerance, 13 isolates showed at least two genes that encode metal tolerance mechanisms. Overall, metal tolerance mechanisms to silver, copper, mercury, arsenic and tellurium were found. New data on metal tolerance mechanisms dispersion and antibiotic-resistance characterization of the E. bugandensis and E. kobei species were here provided. The occurrence of MDR Enterobacter spp. in analyzed samples draws attention to an urgent need to put control measures into practice. It also evidences waterborne spread of clinically important antibiotic-resistant bacteria recognized as critical priority pathogens.

Clothing as a potential exposure source of trace elements during early life

In recent years, the interest in determining the chemical composition of textile products has increased among the scientific community and regulatory agencies, driven by toxicological issues and environmental concerns. Chemical elements are naturally present in clothing as natural fibers or intentionally added during manufacture. Some of them show physical-chemical properties that allow their absorption through the skin. In addition, chronic situations increase the dermal exposure capacity. Because of age-specific behavioral characteristics and underdeveloped physiological function, children may be especially sensitive to exposure to trace elements. This study aimed to analyze the levels of twenty trace elements in 120 clothing items commercialized in Spain. Textile products for pregnant women and children <36 months old were included. The potential health implication of this dermal exposure in early life was also evaluated. Aluminum, zinc, and titanium showed the highest concentrations, with median levels of 27.6, 5.6, and 4.2 mg/kg, respectively. Since chromium is employed as a metal complex dye in synthetic fibers, high levels of this element were found in black polyester. Dermal exposure to titanium, which is a ubiquitous element in clothes made of synthetic fibers, was associated with a hazard quotient (HQ) higher than the threshold value (HQ > 1), with values of 1.13 for pregnant women and 1.22 for newborns. On the other hand, HQ values of other elements and cancer risks were lower than the recommended values. Assessing early-life exposure to toxic elements can help to identify potential sources and to prevent or reduce human exposure, mainly in vulnerable groups.

Non-regulated aromatic amines in clothing purchased in Spain and Brazil: Screening-level exposure and health impact assessment

The staggering amount of chemicals in clothes and their harmful effects on human health and the environment have attracted the attention of regulatory agencies and the scientific community worldwide. Azo dyes are synthetic dyestuffs with widespread use in textile industries, currently classified as emerging pollutants of great health concern to consumers. These compounds may release one or more aromatic amines (AAs) after reductive cleavage of their azo bounds. Twenty-two AAs have already been regulated due to their carcinogenic effects. However, since information on their potential toxicity is not currently available, several AAs have not been still regulated by the European Union. Considering this gap, the present study aimed to assess the levels of forty non-regulated AAs in 240 clothing items from Spain and Brazil. The potential impact on the health of vulnerable population groups after dermal exposure to those garments was also evaluated. In Brazil, at least one AA was detected in the clothes, while in samples obtained in Spain, only two of them showed values below the limit of detection for AAs. In 75 clothes, at least one of the measured AAs was higher than the hazardous threshold (30 mg/kg), which can mean risks to human health since these compounds are suspected to be mutagenic. Aniline, the most common AA, showed a high detection rate (82%) in clothes, with significantly higher concentrations in items commercialized in Brazil (0.35 vs. 0.17 mg/kg; p = 0.032). Moreover, o-aminobenzenesulfonic and p-phenylenediamine, suspected mutagenic, were found at relevant concentrations in several clothes, mainly made of synthetic fibers. In this study, the hazard index associated with exposure to AAs through clothing was low (0.006-0.13) for all the population groups of both countries in the medium-bound scenario. However, its value was close to 1 for Brazilian pregnant women (0.998) when the maximum concentration value was considered under an upper-bound scenario. The risk of exposure to non-regulated AAs may be underestimated since only dermal exposure was considered for risk assessment. Moreover, the co-occurrence of other carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic substances present in skin-contact clothes should mean an additional source of potential risk.

Dermal exposure to bisphenols in pregnant women's and baby clothes: Risk characterization

Textile manufacturing consists of a multiple-step process in which a wide range of chemicals is used, some of them remaining in the final product. Bisphenols (BPs) are non-intentionally added compounds in textiles, whose prolonged skin contact may mean a significant source of daily human exposure, especially in vulnerable groups of the population. The present study aimed to determine the levels of bisphenol A (BPA) and some BP analogs (BPB, BPF, and BPS) in 120 new clothes commercialized in Spain for pregnant women, newborns, and toddlers. In addition, exposure assessment and risk characterization were also carried out. Traces of BPA were found in all the samples, with a median concentration of 7.43 ng/g. The highest values were detected in textile samples made of polyester. Regarding natural fibers, higher concentrations of BPs were observed in garments made of conventional cotton than in those made of organic cotton, with a significant difference for BPS (1.24 vs. 0.76 ng/g, p < 0.05). Although toddlers have a larger skin-area-to-body-weight ratio, pregnant women showed higher exposure to BPs than children. Anyhow, the non-carcinogenic risks associated with BPA exposure were below the unity, even under the upper-bound scenario. However, risks could be underestimated because other exposure routes were not considered in this study. The use of BPA has been restricted in some food-related products; therefore, BPA should also be regulated in the textile industry.

Screening of regulated aromatic amines in clothing marketed in Brazil and Spain: Assessment of human health risks

Azo dyes used in textile products contain aromatic amines (AAs), which may be released into the environment after skin bacteria cleavage the azo bond. In Europe, 22 carcinogenic AAs are regulated. Unfortunately, no information is available in many non-European countries, including Brazil. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of 20 regulated AAs in clothes marketed in Brazil and Spain. Generally, higher levels of regulated AAs were found in samples sold in Brazil than in Spain, which is linked to the lack of regulation. Sixteen AAs showed concentrations above 5 mg/kg in samples commercialized in Brazil, while 11 exceeded that threshold in Spain. Regulated AAs with levels above 5 mg/kg were more found in synthetic clothes of pink color. Concentrations in clothing were also used to evaluate the dermal exposure to AAs in 3 vulnerable population groups. The highest exposure corresponded to 2,4-diaminoanisole for toddlers in Brazil and 4,4-oxydianiline for newborns in Spain. Non-cancer risks associated with exposure to 4,4-benzidine by Brazilian toddlers was 14.5 (above the threshold). On the other hand, 3,3-dichlorobenzidine was associated with potential cancer risks for newborns and toddlers in Brazil. Given this topic's importance, we recommend conducting continuous studies to determine the co-occurrence of carcinogenic substances.

Legacy and emerging pollutants in Latin America: A critical review of occurrence and levels in environmental and food samples

The increase and indiscriminate use of personal care products, food products, fertilizers, pesticides, and health products, among others, have resulted/are resulting in extensive environmental contamination. Most of these products contain traces of widespread chemicals, usually known as emerging pollutants (EPs) or pollutants of emerging concern (PEC). The Latin American (LA) region comprises 20 countries with different social and cultural aspects, with 81 % of the population living in urban areas. The LA region has some countries on the top list of users/consumers of EPs, from pesticides and fertilizers to personal care products. However, there is a gap in information related to the distribution of EPs in the environment of this region, with very few existing review texts exploring this issue. Therefore, this present paper advances this approach. An exhaustive literature review, with the selection of 176 documents, provided unique up-to-date information on the presence/distribution of 17 classes of legacy or emerging pollutants in different food and environmental matrices (soil, sediment, water, and air). The study shows that the wide distribution and recorded levels of these pollutants in the continental environment are potential risks to human health, mainly through food and drinking water ingestion. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are pollutants of deep public concern since they show carcinogenic properties. Several classes of pollutants, like endocrine disruptors, have caused harmful effects on humans and the environment. Besides that, pharmaceutical products and pesticides are compounds of high consumption worldwide, being environmental contamination a real and ongoing possibility. Finally, gaps and future research needs are deeply pointed out.

Essential and Non-essential Trace Elements in Milks and Plant-Based Drinks

Although milk and plant-based drinks are widely consumed foodstuffs with high nutritional value, their consumption may also mean intake of non-essential/toxic elements becoming a risk for human health. This study was aimed at determining the concentrations of essential (Ca, Co, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni and P) and non-essential/toxic (Hg, Pb, U and V) elements in milks (cow and goat), plant-based drinks (soy, almond, rice and oat) and infant formulas from organic and conventional production systems. Lactose-free, fresh and ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milks were also included. Chemical analyses were performed by means of inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The content of the elements hereby assessed did not depend on the production system and the presence of lactose. However, significant differences were found in the concentrations of multiple elements when comparing sterilization methods, source (animal vs. plant-based) and animal species. Non-essential elements were not detected in milks and plant-based drinks, excepting Pb, which was detected in three samples. While the consumption of goat milk is recommended, considering the global intake of essential elements and the absence of non-essential elements, further studies should be conducted to confirm the absence of non-target toxic elements at very low trace levels. On the other hand, the best plant-based drinks are those made up with almonds (intake of Ca) and soy (K and Mg). The current results should be useful to help the population to balance the benefits and risks from milks and plant-based drinks consumption, as well as to adapt their dietary habits.

Health risk assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in baby clothes. A preliminary study

Clothes may contain a large range of chemical additives and other toxic substances, which may eventually pose a significant risk to human health. Since they are associated with pigments, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) may be especially relevant. On the other hand, infants are very sensitive to chemical exposure and they may wear some contact and colored textiles for a prolonged time. Consequently, a specific human health risk assessment is required. This preliminary study was aimed at analyzing the concentrations of PCBs in ten bodysuits purchased in on-line stores and local retailers. The concentrations of 12 dioxin-like and 8 non-dioxin-like PCB congeners were determined by gas chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry, with detection limits ranging between 0.01 and 0.13 pg/g. The dermal absorption to PCBs of children at different ages (6 months, 1 year and 3 years old) was estimated, and the non-cancer and cancer risks were evaluated. Total levels of PCBs ranged from 74.2 to 412 pg/g, with a mean TEQ concentration of 13.4 pg WHO-TEQ/kg. Bodysuits made of organic cotton presented a total mean PCB concentration substantially lower than clothes made of regular cotton (11.0 vs. 15.8 pg WHO-TEQ/kg). The dermal absorption to PCBs for infants was calculated in around 3·10^-5 pg WHO-TEQ/kg·day, regardless the age. This value is > 10,000-fold lower than the dietary intake of PCBs, either through breastfeeding or food consumption. Furthermore, this exposure value would not pose any health risks for the infants wearing those bodysuits. Anyhow, as it is a very preliminary study, this should be confirmed by analyzing larger sets of textile samples. Further investigations should be also focused on the co-occurrence of PCBs and other toxic chemicals (i.e., formaldehyde, bisphenols and aromatic amines) in infant clothes.

Mixture of environmental pollutants in breast milk from a Spanish cohort of nursing mothers

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival, with several benefits for both the infants and their mothers. However, breast milk can contain environmental pollutants with endocrine disruption capacity, neurotoxicity and/or potential to alter microbiota. Monitoring breast milk provides information on the current chemical exposure of breastfed infants and, in addition, on the current and historical exposure of nursing mothers. In this study, the levels of a wide range of pollutants were measured in breast milk of Spanish nursing mothers. Target chemicals were dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), oxy-chlordane, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) (including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)), chlorpyrifos, bisphenol A (BPA), tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), and a number of toxic and essential elements. Traces of most chemicals were found. A correlation between the levels of some persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and maternal characteristics (age and body mass index) was observed, while smoking was associated to higher concentrations of some toxic elements. Higher levels of PCBs were detected in samples from Spanish primiparous mothers compared to non-Spanish multiparous women. Breast milk from low-income mothers showed higher content of DDT and DDE than high-income mothers. Although breastfeeding is clearly beneficial for babies, the exposure to this mixture of hazardous substances, as well as their interaction and combined effects must not be disregarded.

Human exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) through the diet: An update of the scientific literature

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a class of brominated flame-retardants (BFRs). As for other persistent organic pollutants, dietary intake (followed by dust inhalation) is the main route of human exposure to PBDEs. In 2012, we reviewed the scientific literature on the concentrations of PBDEs in foodstuffs and their dietary exposure. The current review is aimed at updating the results of recent studies (2012-2022) focused on determining the levels of PBDEs in food samples, as well as the dietary intake of these compounds. We have revised studies conducted over the world. The current information on the concentrations of PBDEs in food and their dietary intake is now much more notable than that available in our previous review, being China the country contributing with the highest number of studies. Because of the important differences in materials and methods used in the available studies, the comparison of results is certainly complicated. However, there seems to be a general trend towards a decrease in the levels of PBDEs in foods, and consequently, in the dietary intake of these contaminants. The lack of tolerable daily intakes of PBDEs is an issue that needs to be solved for assessing human health risks of these BFRs.

Levels of phthalates and bisphenol in toys from Brazilian markets: Migration rate into children's saliva and daily exposure

Bisphenols (BPs) and phthalate esters (PAEs) are extensively used in toys and childcare products. Therefore, children may be exposed to these compounds, causing potential adverse effects. Despite the strict control of the levels of these contaminants in toys by some nations, routine testing in Brazil is very scarce. The present study was aimed at determining the concentrations of PAEs and BPs in toys commercialized in Brazil, employing GC-MS and LC-MS/MS, respectively. Furthermore, the migration capacity of PAEs into saliva and the daily intake (EDI) were also estimated. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) was the PAE with the highest detection rate (93%) and migration rate (0.26 μg/min). Moreover, the levels of DEHP in some samples were above the threshold values set by the European Commission and the Brazilian Institute of Metrology, Standardization, and Industrial Quality. Among the BPs analogs, BPA and BPS presented the highest positive detection rates (72% and 30%, respectively). However, their levels were below the permitted values in all analyzed samples. A daily intake of DEHP was estimated at 29.8 μg/kg bw/day, being this exposure similar to those found in other countries and below the EFSA acceptable intake limit (50 μg/kg bw/day). However, our data are referred to exposure through oral contact with the analyzed toys, while the contribution of other potential sources, such as food consumption, were not here considered. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study estimating the exposure of Brazilian children to PAEs and BPs, considering toys as the exposure source. These preliminary data may become a valuable guide for the control of EDC levels in toys commercialized in Brazil, as well as for future studies regarding estimation of exposure to EDCs by children taking into account multiple potential sources.

Influence of different types of LEDs lights on the formation of volatile sulfur compounds in white and rosé wines

The effect of LEDs light on the formation of volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) and the final sensory quality of white and rosé wines was evaluated. Thus, different commercial wines were exposed for ten days to three types of lights. All wine samples were analyzed throughout the exposure period to determine the usual oenological parameters together with some other chemical characteristics (color evolution; riboflavin, cysteine and methionine photodegradation), VSC amounts and sensory characteristics. The results showed that the wines exposed to ultraviolet light suffered greater degradation of the aromatic precursors, mainly riboflavin, and had higher concentrations of VSCs. Regarding LED lights, these produced minimal degradative effects. So that we can consider this type of light as an alternative to reduce the economic impact that currently occurs due to the photodegradation of bottled wines.

Dietary Habits and Relationship with the Presence of Main and Trace Elements, Bisphenol A, Tetrabromobisphenol A, and the Lipid, Microbiological and Immunological Profiles of Breast Milk

Breastfeeding is the best way to feed an infant, although it can also be a source of abiotic contaminants such as heavy metals or bisphenol A (BPA). The early life exposure to these compounds can lead to serious toxic effects in both the short and long-term. These substances can reach breast milk through the mother’s habits, diet being one of the main routes of exposure. The aim of the present work was to analyse possible associations between the dietary habits of women and the content of major trace elements, BPA, fatty acids and lipids, and the microbiological and immunological profiles of human milk. Possible associations between major trace elements and BPA and the lipid, microbiological and immunological profiles were also analysed. The results of this study support that the microbiological composition of human milk is associated with the dietary habits of the women, and that the consumption of canned drinks is related to the presence of BPA in human milk. Furthermore, some relationships were found between the amount of major trace elements and the microbiological and immunological profile of the milk samples. Finally, the presence of BPA was associated with changes in the immunological profile of human milk.

Environmental impact and human health risks of air pollutants near a large chemical/petrochemical complex: Case study in Tarragona, Spain

Chemical industries and oil refineries are known emission sources of environmental contaminants, such as metals/metalloids, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), among others. Based on the toxicological potential of these pollutants, harmful health effects can be expected for the population living near these facilities. One of the largest chemical/petrochemical complexes in Europe is located in Tarragona County (Catalonia, Spain). In the last two decades, a number of investigations aimed at assessing the environmental impact of air pollutants potentially emitted by this industrial complex have been carried out. The present paper is a review of the available scientific information on the levels of air pollutants related with the activities of this chemical/petrochemical complex. Although there are currently some data on the environmental burdens of metals/metalloids, PAHs, VOCs and PCDD/Fs, there is an evident lack of specific biological monitoring studies on human health. Taking into account the amount of chemicals released to air and their toxicity, it is essential to perform an in-depth analysis of the current health status of the population living in Tarragona County.

FishChoice 2.0: Information on health benefits / risks and sustainability for seafood consumers

Since seafood is a significant source of nutrients with known health benefits, its consumption is promoted as a healthy food choice. However, seafood can also contain potentially hazardous environmental pollutants. In the context of the ECsafeSEAFOOD FP7 project, FishChoice (www.fishchoice.eu) was developed as a communication tool to help to the consumers to take the most appropriate decisions on their seafood consumption habits. FishChoice relies on scientific information that allows calculating, on an individual basis, intakes of nutrients and pollutants derived from seafood consumption. In the framework of the EU-H2020 funded SEAFOOD^TOMORROW project, an optimized version of the online tool has been released. FishChoice is available in 25 EU languages with a customized list of seafood species per EU country, considering specific (national) consumption habits. The list of nutrients has been extended according to the latest EFSA recommendations, while pollutants data incorporate results from recent studies. The sustainability of seafood consumption has been also implemented, providing recommendations to help preserve the marine environment. Finally, FishChoice is suitable not only for consumers, but also health professionals, schools and academia, as well as the industrial sector and public health providers.

Temporal trend of the dietary exposure to metals/metalloids: A case study in Tarragona County, Spain

In 2018, samples of various food groups were randomly purchased in different establishments of Tarragona County (Catalonia, Spain). The levels of As, Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, Tl and V were determined in the analyzed foodstuffs and their dietary intakes were estimated. Manganese was the element showing the highest concentration, while Be, Cr and Tl were not detected in any of the samples. Fish and shellfish was the only food group with detectable traces of all the remaining elements. The current levels were compared with the results of two previous surveys conducted in 1998 and 2013 in the same area. Although the levels of the analyzed elements in foodstuffs increased during the period 2013-2018, their intakes decreased by an average of 60%, due to consumption patterns changes by the population. Children and adolescents exceeded the maximum recommended intake of Ni set by the EFSA, while the dietary exposure to Pb for children was also above safety values. Compared with the concentrations found in 2013, Ni was the only element showing an increase, as well as an increase of human dietary intake. Meat, vegetables and milk were identified as the main contributors to Ni exposure. This trend was also correlated with changes in the biological burden of the same elements previously reported for the population of the area, for whom an increase of Ni in lungs was reported. Based on these results, Ni should be included as a target metal by food safety authorities, being suggested its inclusion in future Total Diet Studies.

Dietary exposure to potentially toxic elements through sushi consumption in Catalonia, Spain

Although sushi is considered as a healthy food, it can also be a route of exposure to chemical contaminants such as potentially toxic trace elements. In this study, we analysed the concentration of Cd, I, Ni, Pb and total Hg, as well as iAs and MeHg in sushi samples. Iodine levels were higher in samples containing seaweed, while iAs concentrations were greater in rice-containing sushi. In turn, total Hg and MeHg were significantly higher in sushi samples with tuna. Health risks of sushi consumption were assessed for three population groups: children, adolescents and adults. Considering an average intake of 8 sushi pieces for adults and adolescents, and 3 sushi pieces for children, the estimated exposure to MeHg by adolescents exceeded the tolerable daily intake set by EFSA, while MeHg intake by children and adults was below, but close to that threshold. A relatively high daily exposure of Ni and Pb was also found, especially for adolescents. Since this study focused only on the consumption of sushi, the contribution of other food groups to the overall dietary exposure should not be disregarded. It might lead to an exposure to MeHg and other trace elements above the health-based guideline values.

Daily multidisciplinary COVID-19 meeting: Experiences from a French university hospital

Objectives

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic. In absence of official recommendations, implementing daily multidisciplinary team (MDT) COVID-19 meetings was urgently needed. Our aim was to describe our initial institutional standard operating procedures for implementing these meetings, and their impact on daily practice.

Methods

All consecutive patients who were hospitalized in our institution due to COVID 19, from March 31 to April 15, 2020, were included. Criteria to be presented at MDT meetings were defined as a proven COVID-19 by PCR or strongly suspected on CT scan, requiring hospitalization and treatment not included in the standard of care. Three investigators identified the patients who met the predefined criteria and compared the treatment and outcomes of patients with predefined criteria that were presented during MDT meeting with those not presented during MDT meeting. COVID-19 MDT meeting implementation and adhesion were also assessed by a hospital medical staff survey.

Results

In all, 318 patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 were examined in our hospital. Of these, 230 (87%) were hospitalized in a COVID-19 unit, 91 (40%) of whom met predefined MDT meeting criteria. Fifty (55%) patients were presented at a MDT meeting versus 41 (45%) were not. Complementary exploration and inclusion in the CorImmuno cohort were higher in MDT meeting group (respectively 35 vs. 15%, P = 0.03 and 80 versus 49%, P = 0.0007). Prescription of hydrocortisone hemisuccinate was higher in group of patients not presented during MDT meeting (24 vs. 51%, P = 0.007). Almost half of the patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were not presented at MDT meeting, which can be partly explained by technical software issues.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary COVID-19 meetings helped implementing a single standard of care, avoided using treatments that were untested or currently being tested, and facilitated the inclusion of patients in prospective cohorts and therapeutic trials.

Human biomonitoring of bisphenol A along pregnancy: An exposure reconstruction of the EXHES-Spain cohort

This study was aimed at reconstructing the exposure to bisphenol (BPA) of 60 pregnant women from the EXHES-Spain cohort. A biomonitoring study was conducted by determining BPA levels in urine samples over the three trimesters of pregnancy. Moreover, the correlations between BPA levels and the role of different potential exposure sources, with special emphasis on the dietary intake, were also studied. Urine samples were subjected to dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and the subsequent analysis via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. BPA was detected in 76% of the urine samples. A significant decrease of urinary BPA levels was observed along pregnancy, as mean concentrations of creatinine-adjusted BPA were 4.64, 4.84 and 2.51 μg/g in the first, second and third trimester, respectively. This decrease was essentially associated with changes in the dietary habits of the pregnant women, including a lower intake of canned food and drinks. However, the potential role of other pregnancy-related biochemical or physiological factors should not be disregarded. Very interestingly, significant differences in urine BPA levels were found according to the fruit consumption pattern, as women who ate more citrus fruits showed lower BPA concentrations in urine. The reconstructed exposure to BPA was estimated in 0.072, 0.069 and 0.038 μg BPA/kg of body weight/day in the first, second and third trimesters, respectively. These values are far below the temporary tolerable daily intake (t-TDI) established by the EFSA.

Decreasing temporal trends of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in adipose tissue from residents near a hazardous waste incinerator

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) are very toxic chemicals which are emitted in waste incineration and whose exposure has important adverse effects for the human health. In 2019, adipose tissue samples were collected from 15 individuals with a median age of 61 years, who had been living near a hazardous waste incinerator in Constantí (Spain). The content of PCDD/Fs in each sample was analyzed. The results were compared with data from previous studies, conducted before (1998) and after (2002, 2007 and 2013) the facility started to operate, and based on populations of similar age. In 2019, the mean concentration of PCDD/Fs in adipose tissue was 6.63 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat, ranging from 0.95 to 12.95 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat. A significant reduction was observed with respect to the baseline study (1998), when a mean PCDD/Fs concentration of 40.1 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat was found. Moreover, the current level was much lower than those observed in the 3 previous studies (9.89, 14.6 and 11.5 pg WHO-TEQ/g fat in 2002, 2007 and 2013, respectively). The body burdens of PCDD/Fs were strongly correlated with age. The significant reduction of PCDD/Fs levels in adipose tissue fully agreed with the decreasing trend of the dietary intake of PCDD/Fs by the population of the zone (from 210.1 pg I-TEQ/day in 2018 to 8.54 pg WHO-TEQ/day in 2018). Furthermore, a similar decrease has been also observed in other biological, such as breast milk and plasma. The current data in adipose tissue, as well as those in other biological monitors, indicate that the population living near the HWI is not particularly exposed to high levels of PCDD/Fs. However, biomonitoring studies cannot differentiate the impact of the HWI emissions from food consumption patterns. This question can be only solved by conducting complementary investigations and contrasting the results of monitoring and epidemiological studies.

Effects of air pollution on the potential transmission and mortality of COVID-19: A preliminary case-study in Tarragona Province (Catalonia, Spain)

The number of studies published on COVID-19 in recent months is certainly impressive. However, there are still important gaps to know a great number of characteristics of this disease. Among these, some potential ways of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 and the different reasons for the severity of the disease in different people. Various studies have suggested that certain air pollutants could be increasing the transmission of the coronavirus, as well as the risks of COVID-19 incidence and mortality. In the present preliminary case-study conducted in Tarragona Province (Catalonia, Spain), we studied the potential association of COVID-19 with PM₁₀, NO₂ and O₃, as well as the differences in the incidence and lethality of this disease. This Province is divided into two "health regions": Camp de Tarragona, with an important industrial complex, and Terres de l'Ebre, with a great agricultural component. In spite of the notable limitations of the current study, our preliminary findings indicate that the industrialized/urban areas of Tarragona Province show a higher incidence and mortality of COVID-19 than the agricultural/rural zones. These - and previous - results would highlight the importance of conducting specific investigations focused on directly assessing whether air pollutants such as particulate matter can act as carriers of the SARS-CoV-2. If confirmed, the recommendation on keeping the "social distance" (1.5-2 m) might need to be adapted to this situation.

Trace Elements in Blood of the Population Living near a Hazardous Waste Incinerator in Catalonia, Spain

In 2012, the concentrations of trace elements (As, Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, Tl, and V) were measured in blood samples of the population living in the vicinity of a hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) located in Tarragona County (Catalonia, Spain). This study is part of a wide surveillance program aimed at assessing the impact of the facility on the public health conducted since 1998, before the HWI started operating. Lead was the metal occurring with the highest concentration (21.7 μg kg^-1), followed by Mn (19.7 μg kg^-1) and Hg (4.62 μg kg^-1). Arsenic (6.99 μg kg^-1) showed a low detection rate (49%), while the rest of the analyzed trace elements were not detected. In 2017, a new sampling campaign was conducted, and three new trace elements (Co, Cu, and Sb) were added. In the most recent survey, Cu reached a mean concentration of 931 μg kg^-1, up to 60-fold higher than that corresponding to the remaining trace elements. Relatively high levels were also found for Sb (16.0 μg kg^-1), Mn (13.9 μg kg^-1), and Pb (13.0 μg kg^-1). In comparison with the baseline study (1998), Hg, Mn, and Pb significantly decreased over time. Some trace elements showed significant differences according to sex, age, and area of residence. In general, the concentrations of trace elements in blood were similar to, or even lower than, those reported in the scientific literature. Hence, the exposure to trace elements does not mean any additional health risk for the population living near the HWI. This conclusion is in agreement with other studies carried out in the framework of this surveillance program, in which trace elements have been measured in different biological matrices, such as hair and autopsy tissues (brain, bone, kidney, liver, and lungs).

Essential and toxic elements in human milk concentrate with human milk lyophilizate: A preclinical study

Concentrated human milk (HM-concentrate) can be obtained from the simple and inexpensive method of donated breast milk direct lyophilization. A previous study reported that HM-concentrate contains the adequate amount of main macro- and micronutrients for use as a nutritional resource for preterm infants with very low birth weight admitted to neonatal intensive care units. However, further details need to be elucidated about HM-concentrate composition, particularly its content of essential and potentially toxic trace elements. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the concentration of essential and toxic elements in human milk considered baseline (HM-baseline) and HM-concentrate, as well as to quantify changes in concentration of these elements after the HM concentration process. The concentration of Aluminum, Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Iron, Mercury, Manganese, Nickel, Lead, Selenium, Tin, and Thallium was analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Moreover, Bayesian linear mixed effect models were applied to estimate the mean difference between HM-baseline and HM-concentrate samples. After comparison (HM-concentrate versus HM-baseline), a significant increase in concentration was observed only for Manganese (0.80 μg/L; 95% CrI [0.16; 1.43]) and Selenium (6.74 μg/L; 95% CrI [4.66; 8.86]), while Lead concentration (-6.13 μg/L; 95% CrI [-8.63; -3.61]) decreased. This study provides latest and reliable information about HM composition. After milk concentration by lyophilization, there was a significant increase only in the essential elements Manganese and Selenium. The essential micronutrient content in HM-concentrate was similar or higher than that in preterm mothers' milk, which suggests it is viable for nutritional support of preterm infants. In addition, the low concentrations of potentially toxic elements in HM-concentrate indicates that it is safe for consumption by premature newborns.

Biomonitoring of co-exposure to bisphenols by consumers of canned foodstuffs

For non-occupationally exposed adults, dietary intake is the main route of exposure to bisphenols (BPs), with canned foodstuffs playing a key role. This study was aimed at biomonitoring bisphenol A (BPA) and 5 more BP analogues (BPB, BPE, BPF, BPAF and BPZ) in spot urine and blood samples of a cohort of adults, who followed a diet based on a high consumption of canned food. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study aimed at assessing the co-exposure of BP analogues in food and biological samples after a two-day duplicate diet study. The estimated total dietary exposure was 0.37 and 0.045 µg/kg body weight/day, for the canned-diet and control groups, respectively. BPA was the compound with the highest concentration in urine in comparison with the values of the remaining BP analogues. A high detection rate of BPA was noted in urine for both groups, 96% for the canned-diet group and 90% for the control group, while in blood it could be only quantified in 6% of the samples. The identification of other analogues was hardly related to diet, so it could be the result of other potential exposure sources, such as personal care products (PCPs) or air inhalation. After 2 days, the excretion of BPA was considerably higher in the canned-diet group subjects than those in the control group (7.02 vs. 1.89 µg/day), confirming that diet and canned foodstuffs are the main route of exposure to BPA. Anyhow, the temporary tolerable daily intake (t-TDI) established by the EFSA was not exceeded, even by those consumers with a diet rich in canned food. Moreover, spot urine samples provided accurate information about exposure and excretion of BPA, being the 4 h, instead of 24 h, the optimal sampling interval, when the collection of spot urine samples is not possible.

Health risks for the population living near petrochemical industrial complexes. 1. Cancer risks: A review of the scientific literature

Petrochemical complexes and oil refineries are well known sources of a wide range of environmental pollutants. Consequently, the potential harmful health effects of living near these facilities is a topic of concern among the population living in the neighborhood. Anyhow, the number of studies carried out on this issue is rather limited and, in some cases, results are even slightly contradictory. The present Review was aimed at assessing whether living in the vicinity of petrochemical industries and oil refineries is associated with a higher incidence of cancer and cancer mortality. In this sense, up to 23 investigations were found in PubMed and Scopus databases. According to the type of cancer, leukemia and other hematological malignancies were reported as the main types of cancer for populations living in the neighborhood of petrochemical industries. This was concluded based on studies performed in Taiwan, Spain, United Kingdom, Italy and Nigeria. In contrast, no association was found in 4 different investigations conducted in Sweden, Finland and USA with the same purpose. Other scientific studies reported a high incidence of lung and bladder cancer in Taiwan, Italy and USA, as well as an excess mortality of bone, brain, liver, pleural, larynx and pancreas cancers in individuals living near petrochemical complexes from Taiwan, Spain, Italy, United Kingdom and USA. Thus, human exposure to certain carcinogenic pollutants emitted from petrochemical industries might increase the incidence of some cancers and cancer mortality. Anyway, since the limited number of investigations conducted until now, further studies are required in order to corroborate -in a more generalized way-this conclusion.

Human exposure to trace elements and PCDD/Fs around a hazardous waste landfill in Catalonia (Spain)

Hazardous waste landfills (HWLs) usually mean the end of non-reusable, non-recyclable and non-recoverable wastes derived from industrial activities. A number of hazardous compounds and toxic elements, such as PCDD/Fs, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb and As, is associated to these wastes. The HWL of Castellolí (Catalonia, Spain) treats a variety of hazardous wastes, which include bottom ashes from waste incinerators and asbestos potentially containing those toxicants. In 2007, our group began a surveillance program inside the HWL and in nearby villages focused on assessing the environmental levels of PCDD/Fs and toxic elements. Here we summarize the most updated results, corresponding to data from samples collected between 2015 and 2018. The levels of most trace elements (As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb) in soils, as well as those of Cd and Pb in air, were significantly higher (p < 0.01) inside the HWL than outside. However, no relevant differences were noted in the concentrations of trace elements when comparing the results of villages near the HWL with those located farther. With respect to PCDD/Fs, a progressive decrease was observed between the first (2007) and most recent (2018) surveys. The human health risks associated with the exposure to trace elements and PCDD/Fs exposure were within acceptable ranges according to national and international legislations (HQ < 1 and Cancer risk < 10^-5).

Biomonitoring of Trace Elements in Subjects Living Near a Hazardous Waste Incinerator: Concentrations in Autopsy Tissues

The only hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) in Spain started to operate in 1999. Twenty years later, the levels of 11 trace elements (As, Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, Tl and V) were analyzed in five different autopsy tissues (kidney, liver, brain, bone and lung) from 20 individuals who had been living near the facility. In 2019, As, Be, Tl and V were not detected in any of the analyzed tissues, while Hg could be only quantified in very few samples. The highest levels of Cd and Pb were found in kidney and bone, respectively, while those of Mn were observed in liver and kidney. In turn, the mean concentrations of Cr and Sn were very similar in all tissues. A consistent temporal trend (1998-2019) was only found for Cr and Pb. On the one hand, the mean Cr concentrations in kidney and bone have increased progressively since 1998. In contrast, the mean levels of Pb decreased significantly over time, probably due to ban of Pb as gasoline additive. The data global analysis indicates that the emissions of trace elements by the HWI have not increased the exposure and/or accumulation of these elements in individuals living near the facility.

Human exposure to trace elements, aromatic amines and formaldehyde in swimsuits: Assessment of the health risks

Nowadays, most of the swimsuits are mainly made of artificial fibres, which have interesting properties such as water repellence and fast drying. Swimsuits contain a wide range of additives, which can mean a hazard for the environment and/or human health. In this study, the concentrations of formaldehyde (free and water soluble), 24 aromatic amines, and 28 trace elements (Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sr, Sn, Tl, Ti, V and Zn) were analysed in 39 swimsuits covering a wide range of materials, colours and brands. Dermal exposure and health risks were assessed for adults (men and women) aged > 18 years old, babies between 2 and < 3 years old, children (boys and girls) between 3 and < 6 years old and 6 and < 11 years old, and teenagers (boys and girls) between 11 and < 16 years old, wearing swimsuits for 4 h or 8 h. Formaldehyde and aromatic amines were below their respective detection limits in all samples (<16 and < 1.5 mg/kg, respectively). Regarding trace elements, Ti showed the highest mean levels (1844 mg/kg), being significantly higher in polyamide (3759 mg/kg) than in polyester (24.1 mg/kg) swimsuits. These high Ti levels were confirmed by environmental scanning electron microscope in a single sample made of polyamide. Increased concentrations of Cr were also observed, but only in polyamide black fabrics, with values ranging from 624 to 932 mg/kg. Non-cancer risks (hazard quotients) derived from the exposure to trace elements were in a safe zone for all analysed trace elements. Furthermore, the carcinogenic risks were evaluated for As, Cr and Pb, exhibiting values below the 10^-5 threshold, with the exception of Cr in babies and children-girls. For Ti, health risks could not be calculated due to the lack of information on toxicological data. However, because Ti was the element with the highest concentrations in swimsuits, and taking into account the potential toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles, further research is needed to assess the migration of this element from fibres to skin.

Biomonitoring of Trace Elements in Hair of Schoolchildren Living Near a Hazardous Waste Incinerator-A 20 Years Follow-Up

Since 1998, a monitoring program is periodically performed to assess the environmental and human health impact of air chemicals potentially emitted by a hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) located in Constantí (Catalonia, Spain). In 2017, samples of hair were collected from 94 schoolchildren (aged 10-13 years) living nearby and the levels of 11 trace elements (As, Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, Tl and V) were determined. The concentrations showed the following descending order: Pb > Hg > Ni > Sn > Mn > Cr. In turn, As, Be and Tl were not detected, while Cd and V were found only in a few samples. Some metal levels were significantly, positively correlated. Some significant differences were also noticed according to the gender and the specific zone of residence. Finally, the levels of trace elements showed fluctuations through time. Cr and Pb showed a significant decrease in comparison to the concentrations obtained in the baseline study (1998). According to the current results, metal emissions from the HWI are not relevant in terms of human health impact since their levels were similar and even lower than those reported in other contaminated areas.

Metals risk assessment for children's health in water and particulate matter in a southeastern Brazilian city

Ribeirão Preto City is supplied by the Guarani Aquifer System and suffers with intense environmental degradation due to growth of the vehicle fleet, burning of cane fields and also with water contamination by agricultural products, such as pesticides and fertilizers. The aim of the present study was to assess the human health risk derived from the exposure to metals through water and air (PM₁₀) for two population groups (adults and children) of the municipality of Ribeirão Preto during the dry and wet seasons. Seasonal and spatial assessments of the metal concentrations in supply wells and household waters and the concentrations of PM₁₀ and its metals were also performed. Element concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry. Environmental exposure to metals were assessed under a residential scenario and estimated considering the three main routes of exposure: ingestion, dermal contact and inhalation. The results showed a higher concentration of PM₁₀ during the dry season, which may be due to the lower precipitation and higher number of burns in this period. Copper in household waters presented a great increase when compared with the concentrations of the supply wells, probably related to the contamination during the route from its source until the residences supply. Although presenting levels in accordance with the national legislation, household waters in the municipality of Ribeirão Preto may be a concern for human exposure to metals for children during the wet season as well as the levels found for the carcinogenic risk (ELCR).

Human exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through drinking water: A review of the recent scientific literature

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of water-soluble chemical compounds with an important number of applications, which have been widely used during the last 60 years. Two of them, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), are the most known and well investigated. As for many other organic substances that are of environmental concern, the diet is the main route of human exposure to PFAS. However, in certain cases drinking water may also mean a significant contribution to human exposure, and to a lesser extent, dust and air (indoor exposure). In recent years, the environmental persistence of PFAS, their biomagnification in food webs, as well as their potential accumulation and toxicity, have generated a notable interest, which has been evidenced by the considerable number of publications in this regard. Recently, we carried out a wide revision on the levels of PFAS in food and human dietary intake. In the current review, we have summarized the recent information (last 10 years) published in the scientific literature (Scopus and PubMed) on the concentrations of PFAS in drinking water and the human health risks derived from the regular water consumption, when available. A large amount of data belongs to PFOS and PFOA and corresponds to studies mainly conducted in countries of the European Union, USA and China, although no information is available for most countries over the world. According to the toxicological information about PFAS that is so far available, the current health risks for the regular consumers of municipal/tap water do not seem to be of concern according to the levels considered as acceptable for various regulatory institutions.

Metals in biological tissues of the population living near a hazardous waste incinerator in Catalonia, Spain: Two decades of follow-up

During the period 1996-1998, a hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) was built in Constantí (Tarragona County, Catalonia, Spain). Because of the potential adverse effects of toxic emissions, mainly metals and dioxins and furans, waste incinerators in general have been an important cause of concern for the public opinion. For that reason, to assess its environmental impact on the surroundings, as well as the potential human health risks of the HWI, environmental and biological monitoring studies have been carried out since 1996-1998, when the baseline concentrations were established. This article summarizes all the results corresponding to metals in biological tissues of the population living near the HWI, two decades after the construction of the facility. In 1996-1998, the baseline concentrations of a number of elements (As, Be, Cd, Cr, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, Tl and V) were determined in samples of hair, blood and autopsy tissues (bone, brain, liver, lung and kidney) of subjects living in the area. In successive 5-year periods, new surveys were conducted to periodically measure the levels of metals in the same biological tissues. The daily dietary intake of these metals was also estimated for the population of the area. The results of this surveillance program do no suggest additional adverse health risks of metals for the population living near the HWI. However, special attention should be paid to Cr, due not only to the increases of this element observed in most analyzed biological tissues, but also in its dietary intake.

Quantification of eight bisphenol analogues in blood and urine samples of workers in a hazardous waste incinerator

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been widely used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resins. In recent years, producers have started replacing BPA by other chemical analogues, such as bisphenol -S (BPS) and -F (BPF), all of them under the label "BPA-free". However, despite bisphenol (BP) analogues have a very similar structure, their endocrine-disrupting properties could differ from those of BPA. Unfortunately, information regarding human exposure to BP analogues is very limited, not only as single substances, but also as chemical mixtures. The aim of this study was to determine the levels of 8 BP analogues (A, S, F, B, AF, Z, E, and AP) in biological samples from a controlled cohort of workers in a hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) located in Constantí (Catalonia, Spain). Firstly, a chemical method to analyze a mixture of those 8 analogues in total blood and urine was optimized, being samples quantified by means of gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Furthermore, a biomonitoring study was performed by collecting samples of total blood and urine of 29 people working in the HWI. Among the 8 BP analogues assessed, BPA presented the highest levels in both biological samples, with mean total (free + conjugated) BPA concentrations of 0.58 and 0.86 μg/L in blood and urine, respectively. Free vs. total BPA levels presented a mean percentage of 79% in blood and 19% in urine. Beyond BPA, traces of BPB were also found in a single sample of blood. Furthermore, none of the remaining BP analogues was detected in blood or urine. Despite BPA has been regulated, it is still very present in the environment, being human exposure to this chemical still an issue of concern for the public health.

Prenatal exposure to PFOS and PFOA in a pregnant women cohort of Catalonia, Spain

This study was aimed at assessing the prenatal exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in a cohort of pregnant women living in Reus (Tarragona County, Catalonia, Spain). These chemicals were biomonitored in maternal plasma during the first trimester of pregnancy, at delivery, and in cord blood. The dietary exposure of PFOS and PFOA was estimated by using questionnaires of food frequency and water intake, as well as data on food levels previously reported in the same area. In addition, the exposure through air inhalation and indoor dust ingestion was also calculated. Finally, a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was applied in order to establish the prenatal exposure of the fetus/child and to adjust exposure assessment vs. biomonitoring results. Probabilistic calculations of fetal exposure were performed by forward internal dosimetry and Monte-Carlo simulation. Mean plasma levels of PFOA were 0.45, 0.13 and 0.12 ng/mL at the first trimester, at delivery and in cord plasma, while those of PFOS were 2.93, 2.21, and 1.17 ng/mL, respectively. Traces of PFOS were found in all samples in the trimester and at delivery, and almost in all cord blood samples. Transplacental transfers of PFOS and PFOA were estimated to be around 70% and 60%, respectively. A temporal decrease trend in plasma levels of PFOS and PFOA was noticed, when comparing current values with data obtained 10 years ago in the same area. In agreement with many other studies, dietary intake was the main route of exposure to PFOS and PFOA in our cohort of pregnant women. It is an important issue to establish the exposure in critical windows periods such as fetal development to perfluoroalkylated substances, but also to other endocrine disrupting chemicals.

Dietary intake of arsenic, cadmium, mercury and lead by the population of Catalonia, Spain: Analysis of the temporal trend

In 2017, a monitoring study was conducted in Catalonia (Spain) to analyse, in widely consumed foodstuffs, the concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb), as well as those of inorganic As (InAs) and methylmercury (MeHg). Health risks were estimated for various population groups, classified according to age. A continued reduction of dietary exposure to these elements was observed when comparing the results from the current and previous studies performed during the last 17 years. This reduction would be associated to a decrease of As, Cd, Hg and Pb concentrations in food, as well as by changes in dietary habits. None of the adult groups exceeded the safety threshold established by the EFSA, but toddlers, infants and children exceeded the PTWI for Cd and MeHg. The greatest intake of Cd and MeHg corresponded to infants, being due to the consumption of cuttlefish and hake. The consumption of these species should be reduced to two or three weekly portions, being combined with the intake of other non-predator species. Anyhow, the current results indicate that is necessary to conduct further periodical surveys, paying special attention to the trend in the intake of Cd and MeHg.

Hemodialysis Water Parameters as Predisposing Factors for Anemia in Patients in Dialytic Treatment: Application of Mixed Regression Models

Contamination by metals and microbiological agents in hemodialysis water can cause clinical intercurrences in hemodialysis patients. Evaluating and assuring minimum levels of contamination from metals and microorganisms in hemodialysis water can improve patient safety. The objective of this study was to assess hemodialysis water quality in a major tertiary hospital in Brazil and investigate the relationship between hemodialysis water quality and clinical intercurrences in hemodialysis patients. A prospective-observational cohort study for evaluation of water quality parameters and clinical intercurrences present by patients (n = 52) were performed from May 2014 to April 2015. Mixed linear regression models and binary regression models were fitted for water quality parameters and patients' clinical parameters. The increase in the levels of copper and nitrate in hemodialysis water was significant (p < 0.05) to explain anemia. Bone pain was related to age, sex (female), and hemodialysis treatment duration (years). Hypotensive episodes were related to serum sodium decrease. Aluminum in hemodialysis water was present in an average concentration higher than the permitted threshold (15.35 ± 14.53 μg/L). Cadmium, total coliforms, Escherichia coli, and endotoxins in hemodialysis water were not detected and the heterotrophic bacteria count was below the reference limit. These parameters' concentrations varied during the study, evidencing the need for continuous monitoring.

Monitoring dioxins and furans in plasma of individuals living near a hazardous waste incinerator: Temporal trend after 20 years

The concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) were analyzed in 40 plasma samples of individuals living in zones under potential influence of the emissions of a hazardous waste incinerator (HWI) (Tarragona County, Catalonia, Spain). Samples corresponded to subjects of different gender, age and specific areas of residence. The levels of PCDD/Fs were compared to those obtained in a baseline study (1998), as well as in previous surveys (2002, 2007 and 2012). The current mean concentration of PCDD/Fs in plasma was 6.79 pg I-TEQ/g lipid, which was significantly lower than the baseline concentration (27.0 pg I-TEQ/g lipid). A significant decrease was also observed in comparison to the results obtained in 2002 and 2007 (15.7 and 9.4 pg I-TEQ/g, respectively), while the current PCDD/F levels were similar to those obtained in 2012 (6.18 pg I-TEQ/g lipid). This important reduction in plasma PCDD/F levels is in accordance with the decreasing trend in the daily dietary intake of PCDD/Fs, which diminished from 210.1 pg I-TEQ (baseline) to 8.54 pg WHO-TEQ (current). OCDD was the predominant congener in plasma, while 2,3,7,8-TeCDD and 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF showed the lowest levels. Based on the above results, as well as other recent data on the levels of PCDD/Fs in human milk, we conclude that the presence of the HWI does not mean additional and significant risks -as regards to PCDD/F exposure-for the population living in the neighborhood of the facility.

Risk assessment due to dermal exposure of trace elements and indigo dye in jeans: Migration to artificial sweat

The concentration of a number of trace elements (Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sr, Sn, Tl, Ti, V and Zn) were determined in 42 commercialized denim garments (jeans and shirts), being dermal exposure subsequently assessed. Migration experiments with artificial acid and basic sweat were also conducted to determine the release of these elements, as well as indigo dye. In a similar way than for the total content, Mg (124 and 99.4 µg/g) and Mn (27.1 and 7.20 µg/g) showed the highest concentrations in both artificial sweat, acid and basic, respectively. Indigo dye migrated at levels ranged from 3.22 to 7.76 mg/g, being higher in dark than in light blue fabrics. The levels of trace elements and indigo were analysed according to materials of fabric, colour, brand, and eco-labelling. Using total content and migrations rates, dermal exposure to trace elements for adult men, women and teenagers were calculated under the two sweat extractions. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks due to dermal exposure to the elements here analysed in cloths were assessed. Both risks were in the limits of safe to according to international regulations. However, the maximum exposure to Sb reached a hazard quotient (HQ) of 0.3 in clothes partially made of polyester. Despite some authors have established that indigo is an agonist of the aril receptor, health risks due to exposure to indigo dye were not calculated due the lack of toxicological data.