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The screening of biological hazards, chemical contaminants and allergens in food products is a major concern of food industry since they can cause serious illnesses and even lead to death. Therefore, there is a significant interest in developing low-cost, robust, and rapid detection methods for food safety and quality analysis. Conventional methods provide accurate analytical characteristics, but require well-equipped laboratories, trained personnel, costly reagents, and complicated sample preparation procedures prior to the detection in order to obtain reliable results. Hence, they are not always ideal for on-site food surveillance. This paper discusses the fundamentals of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) and reviews the recent progress in their usage for screening biological hazards, harmful chemical residues, and allergens in food products to systematically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of this technology. It then covers future trends and useful strategies that could be employed in μPADs design and fabrication procedures to address the critical challenges in equipment-free food analysis. μPADs offer promising avenues to revolutionize food safety and quality analysis with merits of equipment-free sample preparation and detection at low-cost. Despite the advancement in the microfluidic technology, the manufacturing of user-friendly sample-to-answer μPADs still requires intensive research studies to be employed for robust and sensitive food safety and quality analysis. • Reducing health hazards associated with food is a major concern of the food industry. • There is a need to develop handheld, low-cost and simple to use analyzing devices. • Progress in rapid screening of biological and chemical hazards in food is reviewed. • μPADs offer promising avenues to revolutionize food safety and quality analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper developed a portable microfluidic paper-based analysis device (μ-PAD) combined with the electrochemical technique for efficient and sensitive detection of peanut allergen Ara h1. The proposed μ-PAD works based on the variation of differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) response current induced by peanut allergen Ara h1. Black phosphorus (BP)–Au nanocomposites were introduced both to improve the electron transfer rate at the electrode interface for signal amplification, and to immobilize the specific Ara h1 aptamers through Au–S bonding to recognize the target in food matrices. This μ-PAD had good specificity and detection stability for Ara h1 allergen and could complete the entire analysis process within 20 min, achieving a wide linear response range (25–800 ng mL−1) and a low detection limit (LOD, 11.8 ng mL−1). In the Ara h1 allergen detection applied to real peanut products (cookies, milk, and bread), the constructed μ-PAD obtained acceptable recoveries (93.50%–101.86%) with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of 0.36–2.97% (n = 3), with a good correlation with the ELISA results (R 2 = 0.9956). Therefore, the portable μ-PAD based on BP-Au nanocomposites was demonstrated to provide an effective strategy for rapid analysis and screening of Ara h1 allergen in food, which has broad application prospects. [Display omitted] • A microfluidic paper-based analysis device for quantitative detection of peanut allergen Ara h1 was developed. • The BP-Au nanocomposites were introduced to improve the electron transfer rate of the working electrode for signal amplification, and were employed to fix specific Ara h1 aptamers through Au–S bonding for recognizing the target in food matrices. • This μ-PAD combined with electrochemical detection technique showed good performance in peanut allergen Ara h1 detection with a LOD of 11.8 ng mL−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly efficient and accurate recognition of targeted allergens is an essential element in the diagnosis of allergic diseases and follow-up desensitization treatment in clinic. The current clinical methods widely used to detect sIgE are high cost, time-consuming procedures, and bulky equipment. Herein, a multiplex microfluidic paper-based device (multi- μ PAD) was developed that combined with tailored gold nanoparticles for simultaneously visual, colorimetric detection of different allergens in serum. This device could be used as quantitative detection of sIgE with LOD as low as 0.246 KUA/L in colorimetric method. In vitro results also showed that this device possessed good repeatability, high accuracy and incredible stability in different pH (6.0–7.4) and temperature (24–37 °C), as well as long-term storage within 90-day. Finally, this method was successfully utilized for assessing clinical multi-sample screening in 35 allergic patients. After the addition of the samples from allergic patients, the agreement rate of clinical results with commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit reached more than 97%, which further indicated that this device had the advantages of efficient, accurate and sensitive to screen various allergens in real clinical serum samples. Therefore, by simply altering antigens and antibodies, this device can also be used for high-throughput detection of other allergens, making it considerable potential for clinical diagnosis of allergic diseases. Paper-based microfluidics and tailored gold nanoparticles for visual colorimetric detection of multiplex allergens were successfully developed. This multi- μ PAD has the advantages of low cost, easy operation, portability and great application potential in the detection of allergic diseases and various CRDs. [Display omitted] • Multi- μ PAD for visual colorimetric detection of allergens was firstly developed. • This device showed low cost, easy operation and portability etc. • This multi- μ PAD achieved high throughput allergens screening. • Our strategy has great potential in the detection of allergic diseases and CRDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Allergen genes of the peanut and soybean were selected as model targets. Four hairpin DNA probes, H1, H2, H3, H4 were designed. Cy3-labeled H1 and H2 were used to detect peanut DNA, while FAM-labeled H3 and H4 were used to detect soybean DNA. Graphene oxide (GO) was used as the adsorption material for capturing the hairpin probes, and as a selective fluorescence quencher to reduce the background signal. To develop an allergen gene detection system with a GO-based paper chip format, we integrated the hybridization chain reaction (HCR) with fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) in our design. The results showed that in the absence of peanut DNA (T P) and soybean DNA (T S), the detection probes attached to the GO surface, which quenched their fluorescence. In the presence of T P or T S , however, complementary probe binding to the targets initiated HCR, producing long double-stranded DNA products that could not be absorbed onto the GO surface. Hence, a strong red or green fluorescent signal was generated. The detection limit for both peanut and soybean DNA was 1 nM using this method, indicating the high sensitivity of our approach. This method also exhibited good specificity and a single chip could be used to simultaneously detect two different targets. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • A novel, enzyme-free FRET assay was developed. • Hybridization chain reaction (HCR) was integrated with FRET on a GO-based paper chip. • Two different DNA targets (peanut and soybean allergen genes) could be detected simultaneously on a single GO paper chip. • Good selectivity and high sensitivity were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergic reactions to vespid stings are one of the major causes of IgE-mediated anaphylaxis. Vespa and Vespula venoms are closely related; Polistes venom is more distantly related and its allergens are less well studied. There is limited cross-reactivity between Polistes and the other vespid venoms because of differences in the epitopes on the allergen molecules.In this study, the major allergens of Polistes gallicus are isolated and characterized. P. gallicus venom contains four major allergens: phospholipase, antigen 5 (Ag5), hyaluronidase and protease that were characterized by mass spectrometry and specific binding to IgE. The complete amino acid sequence of Ag5 and the sequence of the N-terminal region of phospholipase were also determined. The alignment of Ag5 from P. gallicus (European species) and Polistes annularis (American species) shows an 85% identity that increases to 98% within the same subgenus. This could suggest the presence of specific epitopes on Ag5 molecule being the variations on the superficial loops. The features of the P. gallicus allergens could explain the partial cross-reactivity found between the American and European Polistes venoms, and suggest that the use of European Polistes venoms would improve the diagnostic specificity and the therapy of European patients and of North American patients sensitized by European Polistes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Baby wipes and wet toilet paper are specific hygiene care daily products used on newborn and children skin. These products may contain complexes mixtures of harmful chemicals. A method based on pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) has been developed for the simultaneous determination of sixty-five chemical compounds (fragrance allergens, preservatives, musks, and phthalates) in wipes and wet toilet paper for children. These compounds are legislated in Europe according Regulation EC No 1223/2009, being twelve of them banned for their use in cosmetics, and one of them, 3-iodo-2-propynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC), is banned in products intended for children under 3 years. Also, propyl-, and butylparaben will be prohibited in leave-on cosmetic products designed for application on the nappy area of children under 3 years from April 2015. PLE is a fast, simple, easily automated technique, which permits to integrate a clean-up step during the extraction process reducing analysis time and stages. The proposed PLE-based procedure was optimized on real non-spiked baby wipe samples by means of experimental design to study the influence on extraction of parameters such as extraction solvent, temperature, extraction time, and sorbent type. Under the selected conditions, the method was validated showing satisfactory linearity, and intra-day, and inter-day precision. Recoveries were between 80–115% for most of the compounds with relative standard deviations (RSD) lower than 15%. Finally, twenty real samples were analyzed. Thirty-six of the target analytes were detected, highlighting the presence of phenoxyethanol in all analyzed samples at high concentration levels (up to 0.8%, 800 μg g −1 ). Methyl paraben (MeP), and ethyl paraben (EtP) were found in 40-50% of the samples, and the recently banned isobutyl paraben (iBuP) and isopropyl paraben (iPrP), were detected in one and seven samples, respectively, at concentrations between 0.093 and 247 μg g −1 . In the case of phthalates, the forbidden phthalates dibutyl phtalate (DBP) and di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) were also found in thirteen samples at low levels. All the samples contained fragrance allergens in many cases at high levels (up to 2400 μg g −1 ) and three musks were detected in the samples. Excluding the banned compounds, all samples complied with the concentration limits established by the European Regulation although 25% of them did not fulfill the labeling requirements for fragrance allergens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing food allergic cases have posed a great challenge to the human health worldwide. Avoiding the exposure to food allergens is still the only efficient method to prevent food allergic reactions for food allergic sufferers because there are no effective treatments for food allergy up to now. Therefore, it is crucial to develop analytical technologies for rapid and on-site detection of food allergens, helping allergy-prone groups make proper option when buying or eating foods. Recently, various detection technologies and portable analytical devices have been widely developed for rapid, accurate, and on-site screening of food allergens. In this review, first of all, the traditional detection methods were simply introduced and discussed. Then, the latest advances on emerging biosensing technologies (i.e., colorimetric biosensing, fluorescent biosensing, electrochemical biosensing, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) biosensing, surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensing, and dual-mode biosensing) and portable analytical devices (such as lateral flow assays (LFAs), microfluidic chips, and paper-based microfluidic devices) for the detection of food allergens were comprehensively summarized. Furthermore, the advantages and weaknesses of these analytical methods for food allergen detection were also compared and discussed. Most importantly, the remaining challenges and chances in this important field were also proposed. Emerging biosensing technologies have shown a great potential in the on-site detection of food allergens. Impressively, the integration of biosensing technologies and portable detection devices (e.g., LFAs, microfluidic chips, and paper-based microfluidic devices) is one of the most promising methods for reliable and on-site detection of food allergens. [Display omitted] • Emerging biosensors and portable analytical devices are promising for food allergen detection. • Food sample preparation methods before food allergen detection were discussed. • Advantages and disadvantages of existing food allergen detection technologies were discussed. • Remaining challenges and chances in this promising field were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Microfluidic origami biosensor provided facile, low-cost platform for peanut allergen-Ara h1. • Aptamer-decorated black phosphorus nanosheets enhanced detection sensitivity. • Good sensitivity (0.05 µA·ng/mL) and low detection limit (21.6 ng/mL) were achieved. • Black phosphorus nanosheets provided more catalytic active sites and large surface area. • Microfluidic origami aptasensor demonstrated the potential for point-of-need testing. In this study, an origami microfluidic electrochemical nano-aptasensor was developed for the rapid detection of the peanut allergen Ara h1. Specifically, the microfluidic aptasensor was fabricated through sequential folding of a piece of chromatography paper substrate patterned with microchannel and screen-printed electrodes. Aptamer-decorated black phosphorus nanosheets (BPNSs) were electrodeposited onto the paper-based electrode surface as sensing probes for enhanced electrochemical detection and high specificity and selectivity. Critical design parameters (the concentration of probe, time for self-assembly of aptamer and reaction time) were investigated to optimize the aptasensor performance. The prepared aptasensor was able to complete detection within 20 min and demonstrated a linear range from 50 ~ 1000 ng/mL with a detection limit of 21.6 ng/mL. The aptasensor was successfully used to detect the Ara h1 spiked cookie dough sample. The proposed method reduces the gap between complex lab testing and food allergen analysis at the point of need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent times have seen an increase in the prevalence of allergic diseases due in part to the alterations and exacerbations of the global pollen cycle resulting from climate change. Climate change related temperature increases are associated with increased pollen production and an earlier and longer pollen season. A broad body of research has emerged demonstrating that green spaces in urban areas have mental health benefits. Yet, whether the relationship between green space and mental health may be altered by the presence of allergenic pollen remains underexamined. Using Scopus and Web of Science as search engines, this paper systematically reviews the emerging body of research exploring how allergenic pollen in green spaces may alter mental health, behavioural and perceptual outcomes. A total of 26 papers were identified. We found relatively consistent evidence that people living near green spaces with higher levels of allergenic pollen (real or perceived) experienced worse mental health than those living near green spaces with lower levels. However, for those currently visiting green space, the mental health effects of allergenic pollen were less clear. There was strong evidence that those who perceived the presence of pollen within a green space had adverse perceptions of that space. Green spaces with higher objective pollen counts also received less visitors. Finally, a small number of studies identified that green spaces that contained mainly hazel, alder, birch, cypress, linden, poplar, plane, maple and juniper trees were all associated with higher perceived pollen levels, avoidance, and adverse mental health effects, although more research is required to confirm this. We conclude with prospects for future research and also highlight the need to closely monitor and carefully select the species that are planted within green spaces. • Reviewed papers exploring how allergenic pollen in green space affects visitors and residents living nearby. • Residents who perceived higher allergenic pollen levels experienced worse mental health. • Green spaces containing higher objective pollen levels were avoided and perceived negatively. • Hazel, alder, birch, cypress, linden, poplar, plane, maple and juniper correlated with higher perceived pollen levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food allergy diagnosis requires a highly sensitive detection of allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) in the serum. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a classical method widely used for sIgE detection but had to rely on costly and time-consuming assay procedures, skilled technicians, and bulky equipment. Here, a multiplexed origami paper analytical device (moPAD) that is hexahistidine-tagged and integrated with a nitrilotriacetic acid-functionalized surface with nickel (Ni-NTA) was developed to achieve low-cost and high-efficiency immunosensing of multiple allergen-specific IgEs in serum. The major oyster allergens, Cra a 1, Cra a 2, and Cra a 4, were used to detect sIgE in human serum. The feasibility of the moPAD-based immunosensing strategy was successfully demonstrated by desirable sensitivities for multiple targets. The detection results of moPAD for 72 serum samples were 100% consistent with clinical test results, while 69 of these results showed no significant differences from ELISA results, demonstrating the accuracy and stability of this method. A fully integrated moPAD reduces detection time and achieves highly sensitive quantification using a simple smartphone-based readout. Efficient allergen modification of paper devices has great applicability in allergen component-resolved diagnostics. The implementation of moPAD can make the process of allergy diagnosis simpler for patients, physicians, and healthcare systems alike. • Multiple oyster sIgEs are simultaneously detected in a portable POCT. • A method for the immobilization of recombinant allergens was constructed. • The specific binding of His-tag and Ni-NTA improved the loading capacity. • The integrated origami device has reduced the detection time to 30 min [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preventing the transfer of allergens from one food to another via food contact surfaces in retail food environments is an important aspect of retail food safety. Existing recommendations for wiping and cleaning food contact surfaces is mainly focused on preventing microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, from contaminating foods. The effectiveness of these wiping and cleaning recommendations for preventing the transfer of food allergens in retail and food service establishments remains unclear. This project investigated (i) allergen removal from surfaces by wiping with paper wipes, terry cloth, and alcohol quaternary ammonium chloride (quat) sanitizing wipes; (ii) cleaning of allergen-contaminated surfaces by using a wash–rinse–sanitize–air dry procedure; and (iii) allergen transfer from contaminated wipes to multiple surfaces. Food contact surfaces (stainless steel, textured plastic, and maple wood) were contaminated with peanut-, milk- and egg-containing foods and subjected to various wiping and cleaning procedures. For transfer experiments, dry paper wipes or wet cloths contaminated with allergenic foods were wiped on four surfaces of the same composition. Allergen-specific lateral flow devices were used to detect the presence of allergen residues on wiped or cleaned surfaces. Although dry wipes and cloths were not effective for removing allergenic foods, terry cloth presoaked in water or sanitizer solution, use of multiple quat wipes, and the wash–rinse–sanitize–air dry procedure were effective in allergen removal from surfaces. Allergens present on dry wipes were transferred to wiped surfaces. In contrast, minimal or no allergen transfer to surfaces was found when allergen-contaminated terry cloth was submerged in sanitizer solution prior to wiping surfaces. The full cleaning method (wash–rinse–sanitize–air dry) and soaking the terry cloth in sanitizer solution prior to wiping were effective at allergen removal and minimizing allergen transfer. Wet cloths and wipes were more effective in allergen removal from surfaces than dry wipes. Prescraping food from surfaces prior to full cleaning aided allergen removal. Cloth storage in sanitizer solution minimized allergen transfer between surfaces. Allergens were difficult to remove from a textured plastic surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study is to review the evidence available suggesting that environmental conditions represent a risk factor associated with non-infective acute respiratory illness in athletes.Design: Systematic review.Methods: PubMed, EBSCOhost and Web of Science (1st January 1990-31 July 2020) were searched systematically using keywords related to male and female athletes (i.e. from physically active individuals to elite athletes), aged 15-65 years and a combination of the terms (non-infective acute respiratory illness AND [pollution OR allergies OR climate] AND athletes AND prevalence/incidence/risk factors).Results: A total of seven papers (n = 1567 athletes) addressed our question. Among these, one focused on indoor air pollution, four on chlorinated swimming pool exposure and two on cold air conditions. None was selected for allergies, outdoor air pollution or other climatic conditions. Except rhinitis induced by swimming in chlorinated pools (n = 1), no respiratory disease due to the environment was identified specifically in athletes. The levels of chloramines in swimming pools (n = 2) and air pollutant in arenas (n = 1) were identified as risk factors for rhinitis and respiratory symptoms when exercising.Discussions: There is a paucity of data on the prevalence, incidence and risk factors of being acutely exposed to chlorine by-products, air pollution, cold air or altitude on the development of respiratory disease specifically in athletes. Noting the lack of a clear definition of environmentally induced lung disease in athletes, distinct from that of the general population, we addressed the few published management plans to protect athletes' airways for each specific environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupational asthma covers a group of work-related diseases whose clinical manifestations include airway hyperresponsiveness and airflow limitation. Although the chemical respiratory allergy (CRA) induced by Low Molecular Weight (LMW) sensitizers is a major concern, especially in terms of the regulatory framework, to date there are no methods available for preclinically addressing this toxicological outcome, as its mechanistic background is not fully understood at molecular or cellular levels. This paper proposes a mechanistic study applying New Approach Methodologies (NAM) of the pro-inflammatory and functional effects triggered by LMW respiratory allergens in different respiratory tract cell lines, including bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B), lung fibroblast (MRC-5), and endothelial cells (EA.hy926), and an analysis of the capacity of such chemicals to interact with the mucin protein, to address certain toxicodynamic aspects of such compounds. The results showed that some of the sensitizers evaluated interact with mucin, the main protein mucus component, but the toxicant-mucin complex formation does not seem to be a common feature of different chemical classes of allergens. At a cellular level, sensitizers promoted an increase in IL-8, IL-6, and IL-1β production in the evaluated cell types. It also impaired the MUC1 expression by bronchial cells and activated endothelial cells, thereby increasing the ICAM-I surface expression. Taken together, our results showed that these aforementioned cell types participate in the CRA Adverse Outcome Pathway and must be considered when developing preclinical testing strategies, particularly investigating danger signal production after exposure to LMW sensitizers in different tissue compartments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foodborne illnesses caused by food allergens are common public health problems and have become an important source of medical burden. Allergens detection in food is a very difficult task because they usually present in trace amounts and are interfered by compounds of the constituting food matrix. Traditional methods for allergen detection can be mainly divided into three large groups: immunoassay, nucleic acid analysis and mass spectrometry. However, these methods are time-consuming, laborious and often require skilled technicians. Thus, it is necessary to develop a rapid, efficient and reliable method for the analysis of food allergens. This paper reviewed the latest advances of microfluidics on food allergen analysis. The key technologies of developing a fully integrated microfluidic platform were illustrated, including sample separation, on-chip allergen detection, system integration and automation, etc. Challenges and future perspectives of practical application of this technology were further discussed. Microfluidic technology has opened up a new way for rapid and effective detection of food allergens. The low sample/reagent volume consumption and the integration of detection make microfluidic technology an ideal choice for on-site use and more convenient to consumers. • The latest advances of microfluidic strategies for sample separation and rapid detection of food allergens are elucidated. • The remarkable key technologies of developing a fully integrated microfluidic platform were illustrated. • Current challenge to practical concern of microfluidic device are discussed for accelerating their analysis of food allergen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some infants allergic to cow milk–based formula are also sensitive to soybean-based formula. This paper aimed to explore the association of IgE and IgG cross-reactivity between α S1 -casein in cow milk (CM) and soybean proteins. The IgE and IgG cross-reactive allergens and epitopes were identified using sera from infants allergic to CM or mice monoclonal antibodies. The AA sequence alignment was performed using bioinformatics software. Finally, the digestion and heating stability of the cross-reactive allergen were explored by sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-PAGE and Western blotting. The results showed that the IgE and IgG cross-reactive allergen was α subunit of β-conglycinin named Gly m Bd 60K. The IgE and IgG epitopes were the sequences at AA 319–341 and AA 164–182. No intact Gly m Bd 60K allergen could be observed after 2 min in simulated gastric fluid by SDS-PAGE. Heating did not change IgE and IgG cross-reactivity by Western blotting. Therefore, the existence of cross-reactivity between CM α S1 -casein and soybean proteins possibly contributes to the frequently observed cosensitization for these allergens in cow milk–allergic patients. The same IgE- and IgG-binding epitopes of cross-reactive allergens may provide important information for elucidation of the association between IgG and IgE antibody generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Sample pooling strategy for food safety screening by means of PCR. • Supersaturated experimental designs and logical analysis to deal with pooled samples. • Detection of foodborne pathogens and allergens through sample pooling. • Logical modelling of sample pooling for the identification of salmonella. • Polymerase Chain Reaction test for the screening of nut allergens and salmonella spp. Foodborne pathogens and allergens are a major concern for public health that determines food safety policy, and their screening could be improved using pooled samples. The purpose of this paper is to propose a cost-effective and accurate pooling strategy for the unambiguous identification of foodborne pathogens and allergens, enabling laboratories to redouble testing capacity while saving time and making optimal use of resources. Although a variety of pooling algorithms have been used in different fields, the strategy suggested here is a logical analysis of sample pooling aimed at qualitative analytical screening problems. It involves, on the one hand, a design matrix to make the pooled samples, which is a supersaturated-based design, particularly, a half-fraction of a Plackett-Burman. On the other hand, a logical (non-algebraic) modeling of the problem, as well as a logical procedure for the identification of the original positive samples, is included. Regarding the efficiency of the proposal, it is higher than that of other pooling algorithms, with an expected number of tests per individual sample ranging between 0.10, for a prevalence below 1%, and 0.59, for a prevalence above 10%. In terms of accuracy, the pooling sensitivity reaches 0.9697 for a sensitivity of the analytical test about 0.99, while pooling specificity ranges from 0.9872 to 0.9999, provided that the sensitivity and specificity of the analytical test are equal to or greater than 0.90. This pooling strategy has been applied to the detection of salmonella spp and nut allergen with complete identification of the contaminated samples. Furthermore, based on the EU reported food samples contaminated with salmonella , a comprehensive comparison between individual sampling and the applied pooling strategy has been conducted. For the specific case of salmonella , detailed calculations have been made on the expected efficiency gains induced by this pooling methodology for different types of food samples monitored in the EU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Presence of dust and/or condensate film affects the transmissivity of solar radiation through the transparent canopy/cover of solar collectors. This paper presents experimental investigation results of water vapor film condensate on the upper and lower surfaces of the canopy and how it affects solar chimney performance. The experimental measurements were carried out utilizing the solar chimney model, which has a collector of 7.0 m diameter and chimney of 6.5 m height above the collector. After 10 days of measurements and observation, radiation transmittance was considerably reduced from 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. due to the presence of condensate. Consequently, collector and solar chimney performance were influenced. A 9%–10% variation in solar radiation transmittance was found between dry and wet canopy. The condensate film required 2.0–3.0 h to evaporate. During the evaporation time (7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.), the increase in the collector air temperature under wet canopy was 3.0 °C–5.0 °C less compared with that under dry canopy. Solar radiation from the sun until 10:30 a.m. was absorbed by the condensate film to evaporate. A delay was observed in the energy conversion processes from solar to thermal to kinetic, thereby delaying power generation. The presence of water condensate film reduced the hydrothermal performance of the solar chimney by two ways: by reducing the transmittance of solar radiation and by absorbing solar radiation from the water vapor particles to evaporate. An auxiliary heat source that supplies heat before sunrise is necessary to evaporate the condensate film and allow the solar chimney to operate early. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The condensation phenomena on the canopy of a solar chimney have been investigated. • The influence of the condensate on the solar chimney performance was evaluated. • The RH% and the condensate water vapor on the canopy were quantified experimentally. • Solar irradiance transmissivity across the Perspex canopy was determined with and without condensate film. • The condensate influence of solar transmissivity obtained in the present experiments was compared with previous works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A WHO position paper states that allergen immunotherapy is an effective treatment for allergic diseases, and well characterized allergens should be used in immunotherapy. The house dust mite is a major cause of allergic disease. However, the biological activity of the mite extracts currently used cannot be clearly determined, since these extracts contain various impurities. The use of recombinant allergens can avoid this problem. However, there remains a risk of contamination by other impurities, such as host cell-derived proteins (HCPs). Advanced purification techniques are thus required to remove these contaminants. C8/119S is a mutant of the major house dust mite allergen Der f 2, and is expressed and accumulated as an inclusion body in Escherichia coli. The C8/119S was refolded and purified through three column chromatography steps. Using this method, we could obtain about 2g of the purified C8/119S in one purification batch. This amount is equivalent to 100,000 of the maintenance doses required for immunotherapy based on the WHO position paper. The purity of the C8/119S was 99% or more. The antigenicity of HCPs in the C8/119S was examined by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis assays. When the C8/119S was administered at 40μg/kg, no local anaphylaxis was observed. C8/119S was thus highly purified with an extremely low level of impurities, and our procedure was shown to be an effective advanced production-scale purification process for this Der f 2 mutant. In this study, we established an advanced purification processes for C8/119S, then characterized the purified C8/119S and evaluated its purity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Some fragrance compounds are severe contact allergens. According to the so-called “26 allergens rule” (Article 1 (10) of Directive 2003/15/EC) (), 26 supposedly allergenic fragrances must be listed on the containers of cosmetics products if they are present above certain mass percentages in the product. This declaration is meant to inform the consumer of potential risks of skin sensitizers in the products. Objective: The objective of this paper is to validate whether “the 26 allergens rule” meets the expectations to improve consumer protection. Methods: The method used for this validation was on one hand a reflection on the elements of the approach used in “the 26 allergens rule” and on the other hand a product analysis of 742 products by 4 large producers of cosmetic products on the German market. Results: It was found that more than 50% of these cosmetic and washing and cleansing products contain at least one of the 26 substances above the thresholds for labelling and that there are 14% of all products which contain strong allergens. Many consumers apparently still buy these products. The indirect effect that producers reduce the amounts of these fragrances to avoid declaration seems to be small. Discussion and recommendations: Several arguments were assembled which show that other instruments are needed to ensure consumer protection or protection of the environment. This paper recommends different approaches. The use of a list of single substances in such a directive is not in line with scientific standards. It is recommended to base decision making on comprehensive risk assessments or at least on valid and strong criteria. More parameters need to be involved, not only contact allergy. As illustrated in this article, the roles taken over by authorities and manufacturers in risk management of the “26 allergens” are relatively small compared with the responsibility carried by consumers. However, consumers are only able to take over their part properly if they are sufficiently trained and have the necessary infrastructure, capability and time to inform themselves. Regulations are not effective if they load the major responsibility for risk management on consumers, instead of on authorities and manufacturers. A successful risk management would include bans and restrictions of especially hazardous substances issued by governments, as well as efficient surveys to control the implementation of regulations by the responsible authorities. It would also include that producers meet the legal standards and take over voluntary action to make products safer. The evaluation of “the 26 allergens rule” is an example which can be transferred to other regulations and which could help to improve future regulatory approaches, with a focus on the roles authorities, manufacturers and consumers play in a promising risk management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

It is clear that contact allergens vary substantially with regard to the relative potency with which they are able to induce skin sensitisation. Considerations of potency will in the future become a significant factor in the classification of skin sensitising chemicals. It is therefore appropriate to establish what is known of potency and thresholds in the induction of skin sensitisation and the elicitation of allergic contact dermatitis, and to identify approaches that might be available for assessment of relative potency for the purposes of categorising chemical allergens. This paper was prepared by an ECETOC (European Centre for Ecotoxicology and Toxicology) Task Force that had the objective of recommending approaches for the measurement of potency and definition of thresholds for both the induction and elicitation of contact sensitisation. The deliberations recorded here build upon recommendations made previously by an ECETOC Task Force that considered the conduct of standard skin sensitisation test methods for the purposes of hazard identification and risk assessment (ECETOC, Monograph No. 29, Brussels, 2000). The emphasis in this present paper is also on standard and accepted methods for the assessment of skin sensitisation, and for which OECD guidelines are available: the local lymph node assay (LLNA), the guinea pig maximisation test and the occluded patch test of Buehler. For various reasons, discussed in detail herein, attention focused primarily upon consideration of categorisation of chemical allergens and the identification of thresholds with respect to the induction of skin sensitisation, rather than the elicitation of allergic contact dermatitis. It is concluded that although the LLNA is the method of choice for the determination of skin sensitisation potency for the purposes of categorisation, if data are already available from appropriate guinea pig tests then their judicious interpretation may provide information of value in determinations of potency and categorisation. Included here are detailed and specific recommendations for how best the results of the three test methods considered can be used for the categorisation of chemical allergens as a function of skin sensitisation potency. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The introduction of novel proteins into foods carries a risk of eliciting allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to the introduced protein. Therefore, decision trees for evaluation of the risk have been developed, the latest being proposed by WHO/FAO early in 2001. Proteins developed using modern biotechnology and derived from fish are being considered for use in food and other applications, and since allergy to fish is well established, a potential risk from such proteins to susceptible human beings exists. The overall aim of the study was to investigate the potential allergenicity of an Ice Structuring Protein (ISP) originating from an arctic fish (the ocean pout, Macrozoarces americanus) using the newly developed decision tree proposed by FAO/WHO. The methods used were those proposed by FAO/WHO including amino acid sequence analysis for sequence similarity to known allergens, methods for assessing degradability under standardised conditions, assays for detection of specific IgE against the protein (Maxisorb RAST) and histamine release from human basophils. In the present paper we describe the serum screening phase of the study and discuss the overall application of the decision tree to the assessment of the potential allergenicity of ISP Type III. In an accompanying paper [Food Chem. Toxicol. 40 (2002) 965], we detail the specific methodology used for the sequence analysis and assessment of resistance to pepsin-catalysed proteolysis of this protein. The ISP showed no sequence similarity to known allergens nor was it stable to proteolytic degradation using standardised methods. Using sera from 20 patients with a well-documented clinical history of fish allergy, positive in skin prick tests to ocean pout, eel pout and eel were used, positive IgE-binding in vitro to extracts of the same fish was confirmed. The sera also elicited histamine release in vitro in the presence of the same extracts. The ISP was negative in all cases in the same experiments. Using the proposed decision tree, we demonstrated the safety of the ISP to patients already sensitised to fish, as well as to individuals potentially susceptible to producing IgE responses to proteins. Furthermore, the practicability of the new decision tree was confirmed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Air ionisers utilising corona discharge have been commercially available for some time, although clinical trials have shown that these do not improve the health of asthma sufferers. New research has shown that the corona products can actually destroy allergens including the main allergen of the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus; Der p1. Concentration heterogeneity of commonly used sources of allergen and the additional problems that occur with electrostatic studies mean that present methods of allergen preparation are unsatisfactory. This paper describes work that improves the repeatability of tests investigating the effects of ionic bombardment on Der p1 allergen concentration. Initial experimental methods involved the distribution of sieved culture medium over a surface and divided into sectors for concentration analysis but this gave extremely variable data and so any effect of an allergen reduction method could not reliably be assessed. Different methods of distributing the sample are described in this paper. The results show that by dissolving Der p1 samples and using small evaporated aliquots, samples of homogenous concentration can be reliably used in electrostatic investigations. The benefits of using the new evaporated solution method is described with a comparison made between the effect of negative corona discharge on Der p1 using heterogeneous Der p1-containing culture particles and the new technique described in the present paper. Using the new technique of sample preparation, reductions in the Der p1 concentration increased from a significant (P<0.01) 37.26% after 60 min to 67.37% after 300 min. Using faecal particles, however, led to insignificant (P>0.05) reductions that ranged from 4.11% to 26.86% after 60 and 300 min, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To prevent allergic reactions, food producers have to be able to make a knowledge based decision on whether to label their products with precautionary labelling. As many manufactured food products are sold in different countries across Europe, the allergen risk assessment should be estimated at the European levels. As currently, there are no pan-European food data suitable for food allergy risk assessment. The aim of this paper is to investigate if consumption data, at a meal level, from National Food Consumption Surveys, can be combined to form a common Food Consumption database. In this first attempt we developed a procedure to investigate, if national food consumption data can be combined and grouped using data from Netherlands, France and Denmark. The homogeneity of consumption patterns and the relevance of difference in risk of allergic reaction were compared, using a fixed framework of allergen concentration levels and threshold distribution. Thus, the relevance of using common consumption data across countries was verified. The food groups formed were subsequently evaluated and adjusted based on practical considerations. It resulted in designing 61 food groups that can be used for allergen risk assessment. The summary statistics and descriptive names for each food group are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the first immunosensor reported so far for the highly sensitive determination of the egg white allergen, ovomucoid (OM). The approach involves the selective capture of sandwich immunocomplexes formed by capture antibody-target protein allergen-HRP-labeled detector antibody onto carboxylic acid-functionalized magnetic beads (HOOC-MBs). The resulting magnetic bioconjugates were captured on the surface of disposable screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) to perform amperometric detection at −0.20 V vs . the Ag pseudo-reference electrode in the presence of hydroquinone (HQ) and H 2 O 2 . The as prepared electrochemical immunoplatform showed a wide range of linearity (0.3–25 ng mL −1 ), a LOD of 0.1 ng mL −1 , which is much lower than those claimed for commercial ELISA kits, and a great selectivity against other white egg allergenic proteins. The developed immunosensor was successfully employed for the simple and accurate determination of trace amounts of OM in unprocessed (eggs and wheat flour) and baked (bread) food samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the major challenges in chemical toxicity testing is the possibility to protect human health against adverse effects with non-animal methods. In this paper, 4-Octylphenol (OP) was tested for skin sensitization and immunomodulatory effects using an integrated in silico - in vitro test approach. In silico tools (QSAR TOOLBOX 4.5, ToxTree and VEGA) were used together with several in vitro tests including HaCaT cells (quantification of IL-6; IL-8; IL-1α and IL-18 by ELISA and expression of genes TNF , IL1A, IL6 and IL8 by RT- qPCR), RHE model (quantification of IL-6; IL-8; IL-1α and IL-18 by ELISA) and THP-1 activation assay (CD86/CD54 expression and IL-8 release). Additionally, the immunomodulatory effect of OP was investigated using lncRNAs MALAT1 and NEAT1 expression and LPS-induced THP-1 activation (CD86/CD54 expression and IL-8 release). The in silico tools predicted OP as a sensitizer. In vitro tests are also concordant with the in silico prediction. OP increased IL-6 expression (HaCaT cells); IL-18 and IL-8 expressions (RHE model). An irritant potential was also shown by a great expression of IL-1α (RHE model); and increased expression of CD54 marker and IL-8 in THP-1 cells. Immunomodulatory effects of OP were demonstrated by the downregulation of NEAT1 , MALAT1 (epigenetic markers), IL6 and IL8 ; and an increase in LPS-induced CD54 and IL-8 expressions. Overall, results indicate that OP is a skin sensitizer, being positive in three key events of the AOP for skin sensitization, also showing immunomodulatory effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultrasound parameters affecting the immunoreactivity of amandin were explored. • Ultrasound altered the subunit, secondary and tertiary structure of amandin. • Ultrasonic treatment reduced the immunoreactivity of amandin to 15.61%. • The feasibility of ultrasound reducing the immunoreactivity of apricot kernels is proved. In this paper, an investigation was conducted on the effects of ultrasound time, power and temperatures on the immunoreactivity of the allergenic amandin in apricot kernels by western blotting analysis during the ultrasonically accelerated debitterizing. And its influencing mechanism on the structure of amandin was also analyzed by SDS-PAGE, circular dichroism spectrum, extrinsic fluorescence spectrum, surface hydrophobicity and zeta potential determination, respectively. The results indicate that ultrasound could significantly reduce the immunoreactivity of amandin during ultrasonically accelerated debitterizing, and the optimal ultrasound condition was 60 min, 300 W, 55 °C and 59 kHz and decreased the immunoreactivity to 15.61%, which might be attributed to the changes of the protein subunits, secondary and tertiary structure, and molecular aggregation state induced by ultrasound. In a word, ultrasound could not only accelerate debitterizing, but also significantly decrease the immunoreactivity of apricot kernels, which proved the feasibility of ultrasound in practical processing of apricot kernels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previously, we published selected Eliciting Dose (ED) values (i.e. ED01 and ED05 values) for 14 allergenic foods, predicted to elicit objective allergic symptoms in 1% and 5%, respectively, of the allergic population (Remington et al., 2020). These ED01 and ED05 values were specifically presented and discussed in the context of establishing Reference Doses for allergen management and the calculation of Action Levels for Precautionary Allergen Labeling (PAL). In the current paper, we publish the full range of ED values for these allergenic foods and provide recommendations for their use, specifically in the context of characterizing risks of concentrations of (unintended) allergenic proteins in food products. The data provided in this publication give risk assessors access to full population ED distribution information for 14 priority allergenic foods, based on the largest threshold database worldwide. The ED distributions were established using broad international consensus regarding suitable datapoints and methods for establishing individual patient's NOAELs and LOAELs and state of the art statistical modelling. Access to these ED data enables risk assessors to use this information for state-of-the-art food allergen risk assessment. This paper contributes to a harmonization of food allergen risk assessment and risk management and PAL practices. • This paper gives the full range Eliciting Dose values for 14 allergenic foods • This information can be used for the characterization of risks of allergen exposure • The values are to be used in combination with allergenic protein intake information • Recommendations are given for the correct use of the values • The reliability and safety of the use of the datasets and values are discussed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modeling efforts to quantitatively reconstruct vegetation from pollen have never been attempted along the forest–steppe border of China, however such studies are important in interpreting fossil pollen assemblages of vegetation change along this ecotone. In this paper, relative pollen productivity (RPP) and relevant source area of pollen (RSAP) as two important parameters in quantitative vegetation reconstruction using the LRA (Landscape Reconstruction Algorithm approach) model, are estimated from the forest–steppe ecotone north of Shanxi, China, where pollen sampling and vegetation survey were performed at 18 random sample sites. The pollen analysis results show that Artemisia , Asteraceae , Poaceae , Pinus , Picea , Quercus , Betula and Hippophae dominate the pollen assemblages with more than 80% proportion. ERV (Extended R-value) analysis showed that the RSAP is about 600 m and that around 50% of the pollen in each sample comes from beyond this distance. RPP Poaceae (pollen productivity relative to Poaceae ) is estimated as more than 10 for Pinus and Hippophae and around 5 for Picea and Betula . Estimates for Artemisia (3–4) are substantially lower than those reported from other studies in the steppe biome, and for Quercus (0.5) are substantially lower than those from the forest biome in north-east China or Europe. Four additional samples were then used to test the effectiveness of two different methods for reconstruction of vegetation proportion from pollen assemblages, the Landscape Reconstruction Algorithm (LRA) and the Modern Analogue Technique (MAT) showed that both methods can give generally reasonable results with similarity index more than 0.6, but there is still some discrepancy between the two methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen data are useful palaeoecological archives for understanding vegetation and associated climatic changes. In this paper we present new pollen data and other proxies (lithology, grain size, loss-on-ignition (LOI org at 550 °C)) obtained from a sediment core (BLK11A) from Balikun Lake, north-west China, to explore the vegetation and climate history of 60.4–27.3 ka (1 ka = 1000 calendar years before AD 1950), covering Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage (MIS) 3. Our three main results are: 1) a high relative abundance of thermophilous temperate tree pollen (e.g. Betula ) accompanied by other warm-wet associated species (e.g. Ranunculaceae, Cyperaceae, Typha ) suggesting warm and wet climate conditions during most of the early MIS3 (59.0–51.7 ka) that resemble the “Holocene optimum” with an increase in effective moisture in most parts of arid western China. Watershed bio-productivity was high as represented by the high LOI org value. A high abundance of Ephedra pollen was assumed to be caused by frequent shifts in lake level, with locally favourable habitats (dry lake beds) forming when lake area shrank. In addition, an interval with deteriorated climate and vegetation was found between 57 and 56 ka, with a sharp decrease of vegetation cover and bio-productivity. 2) The middle to late MIS3 (51.7–27.3 ka) was marked by the development of desert shrubs (e.g. Rhamnaceae, Nitraria , Zygophyllum ), together with low pollen concentrations of upland communities, indicating a continuous and gradually cooling and drying climate that resulted in reduced vegetation cover. Deterioration of the climate is also suggested by the presence of halite deposits and a sustained decrease in watershed bio-productivity. 3) The regional vegetation around Balikun was mainly dominated by Artemisia and Amaranthaceae, which are typical desert-steppe and/or desert taxa, indicating a progressive aridification in north-western China in the late Quaternary. Our new interpretations contradict earlier inferences of highest lake level and wettest conditions prevailing during the late MIS3, and we propose that the decline of northern high-latitude summer insolation and the increase of global ice volume from early to late MIS3 have exerted a remarkable influence on the evolution of vegetation communities and lake level in arid western China on orbital or sub-orbital time scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite being considered a 'superfood', Api-products (Honeybee-derived products) are also linked with heterogeneous health risk factors such as toxic heavy metals, pathogens, antibiotics and pesticide residues due to unscrupulous beekeeping practices. The present work is a holistic approach to extensively studying and mapping various contaminants in Api-products. Thus, this provides an insight into their associated health hazards, such as placental damage, bronchitis hyperactivity, malignancy, renal lesion, neural degeneration, various allergens, etc. According to our findings, Api-products were composed of various perilous components listed down. Toxic heavy metals such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead were detected in abundance. Lead (120–487000 μg/kg), cadmium (30–25400 μg/kg) and arsenic (9.3–1370 μg/kg) were spotted in bee pollen followed by propolis (cadmium, 30–930 μg/kg) and honey (lead, 1.71–2530 μg/kg) above the acceptable level. Additionally, bifenthrin, triadimefon, lambda-cyhalothrin, and chlorpyrifos were major pesticides found in bee products, except in royal jelly. Also, honey and royal jelly samples were predominantly detected with antibiotics such as tetracyclines, quinolone, nitroimidazole, and sulfonamide. Pathogens (C. botulinum , Bacillus spp., Zygosaccharomyces, Aspergillus spp.) were mostly identified in bee pollen and honey. Still, there is a shortage of evidence related to royal jelly and bee bread which signifies huge research gaps. Furthermore, the current paper emphasizes various detection techniques, safety issues, and toxicological concerns related to Api-products, which alarms the urgency of establishing global safety regulations in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the first validation results of a promising point of care device based on an injected plastic microfluidic cartridge and commercial off the shelf components. An 8x8 spotted array is immobilized in the incubation chamber inside the cartridge, and once the chemical reactions have been finished, the colorimetric results are captured by a CMOS camera. The captured image of the array is analysed in terms of intensity levels at each spot location. This device is intended to detect allergen specific IgE in veterinary applications, but it can also be applied to any application based on ELISA like protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Olea pollen is currently an important allergy source. In some regions of Southern Spain, olive pollen is the main cause of allergic sensitization exceeding 40% of the sensitized individuals. Due to the scarce presence of olive trees in Northern Spain, limited to some cultivated fields in the South of the Galicia region where they also grow wild, only 8% of the sensitized individuals showed positive results for Olea pollen. The aim of the paper was to assess the behaviour pattern of the Olea pollen and its aeroallergens in the atmosphere, as this information could help us to improve the understanding and prevention of clinical symptoms. Airborne Olea pollen and Ole e 1 allergens were quantified in Cartagena (South-eastern Spain) and Ourense (North-western Spain). A volumetric pollen trap and a Burkard Cyclone sampler were used for pollen and allergen quantification. The Olea flowering took place in April or May in both biometeorological sampling areas. The higher concentrations were registered in the Southern area of Spain, for both pollen and Ole e 1, with values 8 times higher for pollen concentrations and 40 times higher for allergens. An alternate bearing pattern could be observed, characterized by years with high pollen values and low allergen concentrations and vice versa . Moreover, during some flowering seasons the allergen concentrations did not correspond to the atmospheric pollen values. Variations in weather conditions or Long Distance Transport (LDT) processes could explain the discordance. The back trajectory analysis shows that the most important contributions of pollen and allergens in the atmosphere are coincident with air masses passing through potential source areas. The exposure to olive pollen may not be synonym of antigen exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a study of the columnar and vertically resolved aerosol optical properties over Granada (Spain) during dust events detected during July-August in the period 2012–2013. For this purpose, we classified the events according to their origins and pathways. The analyzed aerosol properties include; columnar aerosol optical properties like aerosol optical depth (AOD) and Angstrom exponent (AE), as well as the lidar products, like backscatter-related Angstrom exponent and linear particle depolarization ratio (LDPR). The lidar profiles are used for determination of the geometrical structure of dust layers and the aerosol optical parameters inside dust layers. There are identified 58 dusty days over Granada during the periods July-August, 2012–2013. In 71% of the dust, event analyzed the dust plume over Granada is located between 3000 and 4000 m a.g.l. Mean values of AOD500 according to the Atlantic and Mediterranean pathway were 0.28 ± 0.10 and 0.93 ± 0.17. Meanwhile, the mean values of AE 440-870 were 0.57 ± 0.25 and 0.43 ± 0.20. Three region are identified as the main dust sources affecting the dust intrusions over Granada. Two principal pathways of air masses during dust intrusion over Granada were observed: through Atlantic (52.7%) and through Mediterranean (47.3%). Air masses which come through the Mediterranean present larger AOD and lower Angstrom exponent values than those air masses coming through Atlantic. Lidar measurements show different vertical distributions on particle backscatter coefficient, during different scenarios of dust intrusions. The lidar profiles indicate that average base and top heights of all dust during the investigation period were 2.1 ± 0.7 and 4.8 ± 0.9 km, and their center of mass and thickness were 3.3 ± 0.7 and 2.8 ± 1.0 km a.g.l. The AE 355/532 profiles for the dust intrusions present some differences depending on the source regions and path followed by the dust. On the other hand, the profiles of LPDRat 532 nm were more similar for all scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro approaches to address key events in chemical-induced skin sensitization have been developed, but there is still uncertain how they will be useful to predict the potency for an effective risk assessment. Keratinocytes (KCs) play a key role in all phases of skin sensitization. Dendritic cells (DCs) activation and maturation require the binding of cytokines produced by KC as a result of initial chemical exposure. We previously identified interleukin-18 (IL-18) as useful marker for determination of skin sensitization potential of chemicals. The aim of this paper was to mimic the interaction between KCs and DCs using a co-culture of NCTC 2544 and THP-1 cells. Three selected contact allergens of different potency (Bandrowski's base, diethyl maleate, and imidazolidinyl urea) were tested in time-course experiments (24, 48 and 72 h). Cell surface markers expression (CD80, CD86, and HLA-DR) was determined by flow cytometry analysis while IL-18 production was evaluated with specific sandwich ELISA. Results obtained from this simple in vitro co-culture system show the possibility to study the contribution of KCs in DCs activation through the analysis of HLA-DR expression. Results obtained demonstrate the ability of the KCs to favor the full maturation of the DCs in the presence of moderate and weak allergens, while the extreme allergen induced a complete maturation of DC alone without the need of KCs. • This paper describes the possible cross-talk between DCs and KCs (NCTC 2544) in ACD through a simple in vitro co-culture system. • The aim of this work was to better understand the in vitro behavior of moderate and weak sensitizers. • KCs favor the full maturation of the DCs in the presence of moderate and weak allergens [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate, reliable and sensitive detection methods for gluten are required to support current EU regulations. The enforcement of legislative levels requires that measurement results are comparable over time and between methods. This is not a trivial task for gluten which comprises a large number of protein targets. This paper describes a strategy for defining a set of specific analytical targets for wheat gluten. A comprehensive proteomic approach was applied by fractionating wheat gluten using RP-HPLC (reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography) followed by a multi-enzymatic digestion (LysC, trypsin and chymotrypsin) with subsequent mass spectrometric analysis. This approach identified 434 peptide sequences from gluten. Peptides were grouped based on two criteria: unique to a single gluten protein sequence; contained known immunogenic and toxic sequences in the context of coeliac disease. An LC-MS/MS method based on selected reaction monitoring (SRM) was developed on a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer for the specific detection of the target peptides. The SRM based screening approach was applied to gluten containing cereals (wheat, rye, barley and oats) and non-gluten containing flours (corn, soy and rice). A unique set of wheat gluten marker peptides were identified and are proposed as wheat specific markers. Significance The measurement of gluten in processed food products in support of regulatory limits is performed routinely. Mass spectrometry is emerging as a viable alternative to ELISA based methods. Here we outline a set of peptide markers that are representative of gluten and consider the end user's needs in protecting those with coeliac disease. The approach taken has been applied to wheat but can be easily extended to include other species potentially enabling the MS quantification of different gluten containing species from the identified markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemical genosensors have undergone an enormous development in the last decades, but only very few have achieved a quantification of target content in highly processed food samples. The detection of allergens, and particularly gluten, is challenging because legislation establishes a threshold of 20 ppm for labeling as gluten-free but most genosensors expresses the results in DNA concentration or DNA copies. This paper describes the first attempt to correlate the genosensor response and the wheat content in real samples, even in the case of highly processed food samples. A sandwich-based format, comprising a capture probe immobilized onto the screen-printed gold electrode, and a signaling probe functionalized with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), both hybridizing with the target was used. The hybridization event was electrochemically monitored by adding an anti-FITC peroxidase (antiFITC-HRP) and its substrate, tetramethylbenzidine. Binary model mixtures, as a reference material, and real samples have been analyzed. DNA from food was extracted and a fragment encoding the immunodominant peptide of α2-gliadin amplified by a tailored PCR. The sensor was able to selectively detect toxic cereals for celiac patients, such as different varieties of wheat, barley, rye and oats, from non-toxic plants. As low as 0.001% (10 mg/kg) of wheat flour in an inert matrix was reliably detected, which directly compete with the current method of choice for DNA detection, the real-time PCR. A good correlation with the official immunoassay was found in highly processed food samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dust deposition and pollution are relevant issues in indoor environments, especially concerning human health and conservation of things and works. In this framework, several tools have been proposed in the last years in order to analyze dust deposition and extract useful information for addressing the phenomenon. In this paper, a novel approach for dust analysis and classification is proposed, employing machine learning and fuzzy logic to set up a simple and actual tool. The proposed approach is tested and compared with other already introduced similar techniques, in order to evaluate its performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaphylaxis is a severe, life threatening allergic reaction. In most fatal cases of food anaphylaxis, the fatality is not due merely to a simple, linear relationship between the allergen and exposure in a sensitized individual. Compounding factors such as the allergic disease burden--particularly the presence of asthma; comprehension of the potential severity of an event, training in the appropriate use of epinephrine, and emerging metabolic factors should be considered when assessing risk and establishing management strategies. This paper reviews the factors that contribute to the risk of severe anaphylactic events and provides a framework for the ongoing management of patients at risk of severe food allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Access to Eliciting Doses (ED) for allergens enables advanced food allergen risk assessment. Previously, the full ED range for 14 allergenic foods, including milk, and recommendations for their use were provided (Houben et al., 2020). Additional food challenge studies with cow's milk-allergic patients added 247 data points to the original dataset. Using the Stacked Model Averaging statistical method for interval-censored data on the 697 individual NOAELs and LOAELs for milk generated an updated full ED distribution. The ED01 and ED05, the doses at which 1% and 5% of the milk-allergic population would be predicted to experience any objective allergic reaction, were 0.3 and 3.2 mg milk protein for the discrete and 0.4 mg and 4.3 mg milk protein for the cumulative dose distribution, respectively. These values are slightly higher but remain within the 95% confidence interval of previously published EDs. We recommend using the updated EDs for future characterization of risks of exposure of milk-allergic individuals to milk protein. This paper contributes to the discussion on the Reference Dose for milk in the recent Ad hoc Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Risk Assessment of Food Allergens. It will also benefit harmonization of food allergen risk assessment and risk management globally. • We present an updated full range of Eliciting Doses (ED) values for the cow's milk-allergic population. • Values can be used for allergen risk assessment and management of cow's milk presence in food. • Updated EDs were within the 95% confidence interval of previously reported Eliciting Doses. • These data will contribute to the recent Joint FAO/WHO Expert Consultation on Risk Assessment of Food Allergens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a triplex real-time PCR assay allowing the simultaneous detection of three mustard species (white, black and brown mustard) and three celery varieties (celery roots, celery stalks and leaf celery) in foodstuffs. The triplex assay does not show cross-reactivity with other Brassicaceae . Low cross-reactivities were observed with fenugreek, cumin, ginger, caraway, turmeric, lovage and rye, the ΔCt values were, however, ⩾12 compared to positive controls. The triplex assay allows the detection of traces of DNA of the allergenic components in spite of an excess of the other DNA templates. Analysis of extracts from model sausages containing defined concentrations of mustard and celery showed that the triplex assay is applicable to both raw and processed foods. It was found to allow the detection of 1 ppm black/brown mustard and 50 ppm white mustard and celery in raw and brewed sausages with a probability ⩾95%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a highly sensitive biosensor was constructed for peanut allergen Ara h1 detection. The biosensor was constructed by coating a glassy carbon electrode with a chitosan-mutiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite and then adding a spongy gold film via electro-deposition to increase the effective area. The probe switched from an “on” to an “off” state in the presence of target DNA, which detached biotin from the electrode surface. This also detached streptavidin–horseradish peroxidase (HRP-SA), which was bound to the electrode via specific interaction with biotin. The HRP-SA catalyzed chemical oxidation of hydroquinone by H 2 O 2 to form benzoquinone, and when it was detached, electrochemical reduction of the signal of benzoquinone could be used to monitor DNA hybridization via chronoamperometry. Under optimum conditions, a wide dynamic detection range (3.91×10 −17 –1.25×10 −15 mol L −1 ) and a low detection limit (1.3×10 −17 mol L −1 ) were achieved for the complementary sequence. Furthermore, the DNA biosensor exhibited an excellent ability to discriminate between a complementary target and a one-base mismatch or non-complementary sequence. The sensor was successfully applied to Ara h 1 analysis in peanuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lupine has been increasingly used in food applications due to its high nutritional value and excellent functional properties. However, there has been a response to the increasing number of severe cases of lupine allergies reported during the last decade, and as a result lupine was recently added to the list of substances requiring mandatory advisory labelling on foodstuffs sold in the European Union. In this paper we report the robust and ultrasensitive detection of the anaphylactic β-conglutin allergen using Apta-PCR achieving a detection limit of 85pM (25ngmL−1). No cross-reactivity with other conglutins or plant species potentially used in lupine containing foodstuffs was observed. This robust method provides an effective analytical tool for the detection and quantification of the toxic β-conglutin subunit present in lupine flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A scientific approach to the assessment of foods derived from genetically engineered (GE) crops is critical to maintaining objectivity and public confidence in regulatory decisions. Principles developed at the international level support regulators and enable robust and transparent safety assessments. A comparison of key constituents in the GE crop with a suitable comparator is an important element of an assessment. In Europe, endogenous allergens would be included in the comparative analysis, however this approach has been hindered by technical limitations on the ability to accurately measure identified allergenic proteins. Over recent years, improved proteomic methods have enabled researchers to focus on major allergenic proteins in conventional food crops, as information on natural variability is largely lacking. Emerging data for soybean indicate that variability in levels of major allergens already in the food supply is broad. This raises questions about the biological interpretation of differences between a GE plant and its conventional counterpart, in particular, whether any conclusions about altered allergenicity could be inferred. This paper discusses the scientific justification for requiring proteomic analysis of endogenous allergens as part of the evaluation. Ongoing scientific review and corresponding international discussion are integral to ensuring that data requirements address legitimate risk assessment questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen allergy is considered a major public health problem that causes morbidity and subsequently affects a patient's quality of life. Pollen due to their large size cannot enter the thoracic regions of the respiratory tract but can affect the nasopharyngeal mucous membrane. At the same time, the submicronic-pollen particles can act as respirable particles reaching deeper into the upper airways leading to exacerbation of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other allergic reactions. Based on the existing literature, expanding evidence shows that climate change and air pollutants could affect the pollen number, morphology, season, allergen content, and distribution pattern. Hence, this will influence the prevalence and occurrence of allergies linked to pollen exposure. Being a part of biogenic pollutants, pollen allergens are not expected to diminish in the foreseeable future. Therefore, it is imperative that steps need to be strengthened to improve and optimize preventive/adaptive strategies. This paper aims to review the major causes of widespread allergy, identify the major gaps, and suggest key preventive/adaptive measures to address the onset and exacerbation of pollen-related allergic diseases with a major focus on lower and middle-income countries. The study also discusses how-to implement the prevention and control measures at the individual, health care communities and organizations, Local Governments, National/International Governments levels to decrease the risk of illnesses associated with pollen allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) the only disease-modifying treatment for IgE-mediated allergies is characterized with long treatment duration and high risk of side effects. We investigated the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of a novel ASIT, called DermAll, in an experimental allergic rhinitis model. We designed and characterized DermAll-OVA, a synthetic plasmid pDNA/PEIm nanomedicine expressing ovalbumin (OVA) as model allergen. DermAll-OVA was administered topically with DermaPrep device to target Langerhans cells. To detect the clinical efficacy of DermAll ASIT we quantified the nasal symptoms and characterized the immunomodulatory activity of DermAll ASIT by measuring cytokine secretion after OVA-stimulation of splenocytes and antibodies from the sera. In allergic mice DermAll ASIT was as safe as Placebo, balanced the allergen-induced pathogenic TH2-polarized immune responses, and decreased the clinical symptoms by 52% [32%, 70%] compared to Placebo. These studies suggest that DermAll ASIT is safe and should significantly improve the immunopathology and symptoms of allergic diseases. From the Clinical Editor: A novel allergen-specific immunotherapy for IgE-mediated allergies is presented in this paper, using an experimental allergic rhinitis model and a synthetic plasmid pDNA/PEIm nanomedicine expressing ovalbumin as model allergen. Over 50% reduction of symptoms was found as the immune system's balance was favorably altered toward more TH2-polarized immune responses. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Mucoid discharge associated with prosthetic eye wear can be a distressing condition that affects the quality of life of people who have lost an eye. Discharge is the second highest concern of experienced prosthetic eye wearers after health of the companion eye and is prevalent in anophthalmic populations. Specific causes of mucoid discharge such as infections and environmental allergens are well understood, but non-specific causes are unknown and an evidence based protocol for managing non-specific discharge is lacking. Current management is based on prosthesis removal and cleaning, and professional re-polishing of the prosthesis. Tear protein deposits accumulate on prosthetic eyes. These deposits mediate the response of the socket to prosthetic eye wear and their influence (good and bad) is determined by differing cleaning regimes and standards of surface finish. This paper proposes a three-phase model that describes the response of the socket to prosthetic eye wear. The phases are: An initial period of wear of a new (or newly-polished) prosthesis when homeostasis is being established (or re-established) within the socket; a second period (equilibrium phase) where beneficial surface deposits have built up on the prosthesis and wear is safe and comfortable, and a third period (breakdown phase) where there is an increasing likelihood of harm from continued wear. The proposed model provides a rationale for a personal cleaning regime to manage non-specific mucoid discharge. Professional care of prosthetic eyes is also important for the management of discharge and evidence for effective surface finishing is reported in this study. Taken together, the proposed regimes for personal and professional care comprise a protocol for managing discharge associated with prosthetic eye wear. The protocol describes prosthetic eye cleaning methods and frequency, and suggests minimum standards for professional polishing. If confirmed, the protocol has the potential to resolve the current varied and contradictory opinions about the management of discharge, and to clarify advice given to patients about how to personally care for their prosthetic eyes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin disease caused by an immunologic reaction to low molecular weight compounds, so called haptens. These substances are commonly present in products used by humans in daily life, such as in cosmetics and fragrances, as well as within chemical industry and in pharmaceuticals. The frequent usage of these compounds in different applications has led to increasing incidences of allergic contact dermatitis, which has become a substantial economic burden for society. As a consequence, chemicals are routinely tested for their ability to induce skin sensitization, using animal models such as the murine Local Lymph Node Assay. However, recent legislations regulate the use of animal models within chemical testing. Thus, there is an urgent need for in vitro alternatives to replace these assays for safety assessment of chemicals. Recently, we identified a signature of predictive genes, which are differentially regulated in the human myeloid cell-line MUTZ-3 when stimulated with sensitizing compounds compared to non-sensitizing compounds. Based on these findings, we have formulated a test strategy for assessment of sensitizing compounds, called Genomic Allergen Rapid Detection, GARD. In this paper, we present a detailed method description of how the assay should be performed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Anaphylactoid reactions to iodine contrast media are rare but serious, possibly life-threatening and calling an appropriate and urgent care. The physiopathological mechanism of these reactions remains to be fully elucidated. This reaction is still mostly called “pseudoallergic” in the literature. However, recent papers emphasise that a true allergic process is more frequent than previously expected. They also insist on the interest of running allergy tests including skin testing. We report the case of an anaphylactic shock to iodine contrast media, occurring during coronary angiography. We performed an allergy check-up and found the culprit allergen. We also evidenced a cross-reaction to another contrast media from the similar group. On the other hand, there was no reaction to contrast media of other types. With these results, another coronary angiography could be performed without any adverse event. When hypersensitivity reactions to iodine contrast media occur, it is mandatory to perform a complete allergy check-up. This will help determine the precise mechanism of the reaction and find the culprit allergen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nasal allergen challenge can be used to assess the clinical and immunological aspects of rhinitis due to inhalant allergens. We aimed to develop a reproducible technique for grass pollen nasal allergen challenge and to study biomarkers within nasal secretions. 20 Grass pollen allergic individuals underwent nasal challenges with purified Timothy grass allergen. An initial dose-titration challenge was used to determine dose–response characteristics. Subsequently, volunteers underwent 3 further challenges using individualised threshold doses. Symptom scores, visual analogue scores, and peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) were recorded at baseline and up to 6h after challenge. Nasal secretions were collected at each time point using synthetic filter papers or absorptive polyurethane sponges and analysed for IL-4, -5, -10, -13, IFN-γ, Tryptase and Eosinophil Cationic Protein (ECP). Challenges gave reproducible symptom scores and decreased PNIF. Tryptase levels in nasal fluid peaked at 5min after challenge and returned to baseline levels at 1h. ECP, IL-5, IL-13 and IL-4 levels were increased from 2–3h and showed progressive increases to 5–6h. Sponges proved the superior nasal fluid sampling technique. We have developed a reproducible nasal allergen challenge technique. This may be used as a surrogate clinical endpoint in trials assessing the efficacy of treatments for allergic rhinitis. Tryptase in local nasal secretions is a potential biomarker of the early phase response; ECP and the Th2 cytokines IL-5, -13 and −4 markers of late phase allergic responses. Our model allows correlation between clinical responses and local biomarkers following nasal allergen challenge. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives: Climate change may be considered as a key factor for environmental change, exposure to health risks and pathogens, consequently impairing the state of health among populations. Efficient health surveillance systems are required to support adaptation to climate change. However, despite a growing awareness, the public health surveillance sector has had very little involvement in the drafting of adaptation plans. This paper proposes a method to raise awareness about climate change in the public health community, to identify possible health risks and to assess the needs for reinforced health surveillance systems. Methods: A working group was set up comprising surveillance experts in the following fields: environmental health; chronic diseases and; infectious diseases. Their goal was to define common objectives, to propose a framework for risk analysis, and to apply it to relevant health risks in France. Results: The framework created helped to organize available information on climate- sensitive health risks, making a distinction between three main determinants as follows: (1) environment; (2) individual and social behaviours; and (3) demography and health status. The process is illustrated using two examples: heatwaves and airborne allergens. Conclusion: Health surveillance systems can be used to trigger early warning systems, to create databases which improve scientific knowledge about the health impacts of climate change, to identify and prioritize needs for intervention and adaptation measures, and to evaluate these measures. Adaptation requires public health professionals to consider climate change as a concrete input parameter in their studies and to create partnerships with professionals from other disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]