Article
Environmental Sciences
Maciej Durkalec, Monica Martinez-Haro, Agnieszka Nawrocka, Jennifer Pareja-Carrera, Judit E. G. Smits, Rafael Mateo
Summary: Non-ferrous metal mining is a significant source of toxic metal release to the environment, posing a threat to ecosystems and biota. This study analyzed bird feathers to assess the exposure of birds inhabiting non-ferrous metal mining sites to mercury, lead, and other trace elements. The results indicated contamination by mercury and lead in the feathers of birds in the mining areas, even after mining activities had ceased. Measures are needed to protect biota from overexposure to these toxic metals.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Neus Gonzalez, Eudald Correig, Isa Marmelo, Antonio Marques, Rasmus la Cour, Jens J. Sloth, Marti Nadal, Montse Marques, Jose L. Domingo
Summary: The study revealed that iodine and iAs levels in sushi were influenced by ingredients, while total Hg and MeHg were significantly higher in tuna sushi. Adolescents were found to be exposed to MeHg above the tolerable daily intake set by EFSA, while children and adults were close to this threshold. Moreover, a relatively high daily exposure of Ni and Pb, especially for adolescents, was also identified.
FOOD AND CHEMICAL TOXICOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Ujang Tinggi, Anthony V. Perkins
Summary: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the important role of selenium in the human body, particularly in antioxidant activity and mitigating the toxic effects of mercury. Understanding the interactions between selenium and mercury is crucial for evaluating the health implications of dietary mercury exposure.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Neus Gonzalez, Montse Marques, Marti Nadal, Jose L. Domingo
Summary: A study conducted in Tarragona County, Catalonia, Spain in 2018 found that manganese had the highest concentration among analyzed food elements, while beryllium, chromium, and thallium were not detected. Children and adolescents exceeded recommended nickel intake levels, and dietary exposure to lead for children exceeded safety values. Meat, vegetables, and milk were identified as the main contributors to nickel exposure.
FOOD RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Shilong Liu, Wambura M. Mtemi, Tianlong Zhou, Jincheng Pan, Aiwu Jiang
Summary: Birds are vulnerable to metal pollution, and can serve as indicators of environmental safety monitoring. This study evaluated trace elements in living and deceased Grey-cheeked Fulvettas at a highly polluted mine tailings and a reference site, finding higher metal concentrations in feathers at the mine site, particularly Cd and Pb. Feathers of Grey-cheeked Fulvettas may be useful bioindicators for local metal contamination assessment.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Ariane Andreola, Daniely Neckel Rosini, Mari Lucia Campos, Josieli Pietro Biasi, Vanilde Citadini-Zanette, Roseli Lopes da Costa Bortoluzzi, Davi Jose Miquelutti, Edilane Rocha Nicoleite
Summary: Mineral coal extraction in Santa Catarina State in Brazil has caused degradation to the local ecosystem, limiting its use. The uncontrolled disposal of waste and sterile mining with high concentrations of pyrite has led to the formation of acid mine drainage, which poses a threat to water resources, soil, and biodiversity. This study characterizes the heavy metal content in the mining waste and tailings, as well as the presence of fern and lycophyte species in the area. The results show that some fern species demonstrate resistance to degraded and contaminated environments, making them potential candidates for monitoring and environmental recovery.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Claudia Galeano-Paez, Pedro Espitia-Perez, Luisa Jimenez-Vidal, Karina Pastor-Sierra, Shirley Salcedo-Arteaga, Luz Stella Hoyos-Giraldo, Adriana Gioda, Tatiana Dillenburg Saint'Pierre, Solange Cristina Garcia, Hugo Brango, Lyda Espitia-Perez
Summary: The study found that residents of La Mojana region showed significant increase in cytogenetic damage and total Hg levels in hair, which were related to high fish consumption. High fish consumption and T-Hg contents were also correlated with necrotic and apoptotic cell frequencies. Additionally, exposure to Hg induced genetic instability and increased micronuclei frequencies in individuals who consumed certain fish species with carnivorous habits.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Maman Illatou Oumar El Farouk, Corinne Casiot, Marc Vinches, Eleonore Resongles, Remi Freydier, Mylene Marie, Sophie Delpoux, Angelique Desoeuvre, Moussa Konate, Boureima Ousmane
Summary: This study investigated arsenic and trace elements concentrations in groundwaters and surface waters in the Nigerien Liptako region, revealing significant pollution in some artisanal gold mining areas, posing potential health risks to the local population.
ENVIRONMENTAL EARTH SCIENCES
(2022)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Amin Gasmi, Geir Bjorklund, Pavan Kumar Mujawdiya, Yuliya Semenova, Alexandru Dosa, Salva Piscopo, Joeri J. Pen, Asma Gasmi Benahmed, Daniel Ovidiu Costea
Summary: Bariatric surgery is an effective method for significant weight loss in patients who have not achieved weight loss through pharmacological interventions. Post-surgery, sustained weight loss offers metabolic advantages and improves glucose and lipid metabolism. However, bariatric surgery is associated with deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, requiring monitoring and supplementation.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN FOOD SCIENCE AND NUTRITION
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
A. R. de Matos, H. T. da Silva, M. C. S. da Faria, B. M. Freire, R. M. Pereira, B. L. Batista, J. L. Rodrigues
Summary: This study investigated the concentrations of chemical elements in mud, fish, and water samples from Governador Valadares city in Brazil after a major environmental disaster. The results showed that the gills of fish had higher bioaccumulation of elements compared to muscle tissue, and the daily intake of fish in these locations did not pose health risks. Therefore, it suggests that fish consumption of 60 grams per day in these areas is safe.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jia-liu He, Guo-ao Li, Zhen-yu Zhu, Ming-jun Hu, Hua-bing Wu, Jin-liang Zhu, Huan-huan Zhao, Han-Shuang Zhang, Fen Huang
Summary: The study revealed that the concentrations of lithium (Li), strontium (Sr), and barium (Ba) were negatively correlated with goiter risk, while lead (Pb) and iodine (I) showed extremely positive effects. Patients in the highest quartiles of I and Pb were 6.49 and 1.94 times more likely to have goiter than those in the lowest levels. Arsenic (As) exhibited a negative effect in its second and third quartiles.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Carmen Rubio, Marcel Dominik-Jakubiec, Soraya Paz, Angel J. Gutierrez, Dailos Gonzalez-Weller, Arturo Hardisson
Summary: Spirulina samples were analyzed for trace elements and toxic metals using ICP-OES, with higher concentrations found in the powder form. Despite the presence of these elements, powdered spirulina consumption does not pose risks to the consumer in terms of exposure to toxic metals. Monitoring of trace elements and toxic metals in spirulina preparations is recommended to ensure quality and safety.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Mahmoud A. O. Dawood
Summary: Copper is a vital microelement for the growth and wellbeing of aquatic animals, playing various functions in their bodies. The addition of copper in aquafeed should be carefully considered to avoid overdose and toxicity. Optimal doses of copper have been identified for growth, productivity, and health status of aquatic animals.
BIOLOGICAL TRACE ELEMENT RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Piotr Bawiec, Jan Sawicki, Paulina Lasinska-Pracuta, Marcin Czop, Ireneusz Sowa, Katarzyna Ilowiecka, Wojciech Koch
Summary: Bioavailability refers to the fraction of a substance that is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and enters the bloodstream. This study aimed to assess the bioavailability of selenium (Se) from dietary supplements and explore the influence of diet type on relative bioavailability. The research used a two-stage in vitro digestion model to simulate the digestion of food containing dietary supplements. Selenium bioavailability ranged from 19.31% to 66.10% in the presence of food matrix. Sodium selenate had the highest bioavailability, followed by organic forms and sodium selenite. The basic diet with moderate protein and high carbohydrate and fiber content positively influenced Se bioavailability. The pharmaceutical form of the product also affected bioavailability, with tablets having the highest bioavailability, followed by capsules and coated tablets.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Dorota Cygan-Szczegielniak, Karolina Stasiak
Summary: Heavy metals pose a serious risk to the normal functioning of living organisms. This study analyzed the concentrations of essential and toxic trace elements in the hair of horses in central Poland, as well as the interaction between these elements in the feed and hair. The results showed significant relationships between the concentrations of elements in the hair and oats, highlighting the importance of assessing essential heavy metals for monitoring exposure and the health of horses.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Romina Molinari, Nicolo Merendino, Lara Costantini
Summary: The gut microbiota dysbiosis is associated with various diseases, and dietary polyphenols may help regulate dysbiosis by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. However, more research is needed to understand the role of polyphenols in pre-existing dysbiosis.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Davit Pipoyan, Astghik Hovhannisyan, Meline Beglaryan, Alberto Mantovani
Summary: This study investigated the levels of potentially toxic trace elements in dairy products sold in Yerevan's markets and assessed the potential health risks for the adult population in the city. The results indicated potential health concerns for the intake of lead and cadmium from dairy products.
FOOD AND CHEMICAL TOXICOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Davit Pipoyan, Meline Beglaryan, Seda Stepanyan, Nicolo Merendino
Summary: There is a lack of data on trans-fatty acid (TFA) content in food products and their consumption levels in Armenia. This study aims to assess the dietary exposure of TFAs through fast-food consumption in Yerevan. The results indicate that while TFA intake does not exceed the WHO limit, it still significantly contributes to daily TFA intake.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Gevorg Tepanosyan, Davit Pipoyan, Meline Beglaryan, Lilit Sahakyan
Summary: This study used compositional data analysis and geospatial mapping to investigate the geochemical associations of lead in agricultural soils and its impact on lead contents in plants. The results showed that soil chemical composition was influenced by geological peculiarities and potential sources of chemical elements' release. Different geochemical associations influenced the lead content in plants, with carbonates negatively affecting the availability of lead in plants.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Seda Stepanyan, Davit Pipoyan, Meline Beglaryan, Nicolo Merendino
Summary: This study analyzes household budget surveys in Armenia to assess trends in food consumption and nutrient intake. The results show a decrease in the consumption of all types of foods, particularly plant-origin foods. The energy and macronutrient intakes of Armenians have also decreased over time, while the contribution of each food group to total energy and nutrient intake remained unchanged. Cereals and bakery products make up the majority of energy and nutrient intake. The findings highlight the need to raise awareness of nutritional requirements and address unhealthy dietary practices in Armenia.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Davit Pipoyan, Stella Stepanyan, Meline Beglaryan, Seda Stepanyan, Robert Mendelsohn, Nicole C. Deziel
Summary: Mining in Armenia leads to excessive heavy metal contamination of agricultural products, which poses adverse health effects. This study measures the concentrations of toxic heavy metals in food samples from local markets and combines them with data from a diet survey to estimate people's daily intake. The findings show that lead exposure from food is a safety concern, with over 50% of the population exceeding the benchmark dose level set by the European Food Safety Authority. Additionally, the study reveals that lead exposure has the potential to increase blood pressure, lower IQ levels, and reduce lifetime earnings.
ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Francesca Velotti, Lara Costantini, Nicolo Merendino
Summary: COVID-19 can lead to ARDS, which is caused by severe lung damage. DHA and EPA n-3 PUFAs have been proposed as potential treatments for COVID-19-related ARDS, but clinical trials have shown contradictory results. Further research is needed to determine the therapeutic potential of n-3 PUFAs in COVID-19-related ARDS.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Davit Pipoyan, Seda Stepanyan, Meline Beglaryan, Alberto Mantovani
Summary: This study aimed to analyze the intake of Fe and its dietary sources among adults in Armenia. The results showed that a high proportion of adults had a lower intake of Fe than the average requirements. Bread, fruits, and vegetables were the main sources of Fe, while heme Fe intake was very low. Females had lower Fe intake compared to males, and there were significant differences in Fe intake between regions. Comprehensive nutritional strategies are needed to reduce iron deficiency in Armenia.
Review
Medicine, General & Internal
Alessio Filippone, Cristina Rossi, Maria Maddalena Rossi, Annalisa Di Micco, Claudia Maggiore, Luana Forcina, Maria Natale, Lara Costantini, Nicolo Merendino, Alba Di Leone, Gianluca Franceschini, Riccardo Masetti, Stefano Magno
Summary: The gut microbiota plays a significant role in the development and treatment of hormone-dependent breast cancer, through its influence on sexual hormonal balance and interaction with endocrine disruptors and phytoestrogens.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Maria Teresa Frangipane, Lara Costantini, Nicolo Merendino, Riccardo Massantini
Summary: This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and sensory analysis of olive oils of different quality grades, aiming to define differences useful for quality discrimination. Total phenolic content could discriminate the lower quality grade olive oil, Lampante, with significantly lower values compared to other oils. Sensory attributes and antioxidant capacity were positively correlated with extra-virgin and virgin olive oil categories. However, the evaluated parameters were unable to clearly separate the extra-virgin and virgin olive oil categories.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Davit Pipoyan, Meline Beglaryan, Victoria Chirkova, Alberto Mantovani
Summary: This study aimed to identify marker residues for nitrofurans in fish and honey produced in Armenia and assess the potential health risks associated with consuming these foods. Results showed that nitrofuran metabolites were present in fish and honey samples, but at concentrations that pose no health risk to consumers.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Lara Costantini, Maria Teresa Frangipane, Romina Molinari, Stefania Garzoli, Riccardo Massantini, Nicolo Merendino
Summary: Hazelnut skin, a high-content food waste, was integrated into classic shortbread cookies at 5% and 10% ratios to replace butter with unsaturated fats naturally present in hazelnut skin. The addition of 10% hazelnut skin resulted in increased monounsaturated oleic acid and decreased saturated palmitic acid, as well as a significant increase in ash content. Although the 5% formulation had higher consumer acceptance, 35% of the interviewed population showed willingness to purchase the 10% formulation, indicating its commercial potential.