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Phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) are plasticizers used in many industrial products that can act as endocrine disruptors and lead to metabolic diseases. During the LIFE PERSUADED project, we measured the urinary concentrations of BPA and Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) metabolites in 900 Italian women representative of the Italian female adult population (living in the north, centre, and south of Italy in both rural and urban areas). The whole cohort was exposed to DEHP and BPA with measurable levels above limit of detection in more than 99% and 95% of the samples, respectively. The exposure patterns differed for the two chemicals in the three macro-areas with the highest urinary levels for DEHP in south compared to central and northern Italy and for BPA in northern compared to central and southern Italy. BPA levels were higher in women living in urban areas, whereas no difference between areas was observed for DEHP. The estimated daily intake of BPA was 0.11 μg/kg per day, about 36-fold below the current temporary tolerable daily intake of 4 μg/kg per day established by the EFSA in 2015. The analysis of cumulative exposure showed a positive correlation between DEHP and BPA. Further, the reduction of exposure to DEHP and BPA, through specific legislative measures, is necessary to limit the harmfulness of these substances.

Transgenders (TGs) are individuals with gender identity and behaviour different from the social norms; they often undergo gender-affirming hormone therapy (HT). HT for TG men involves testosterone treatment and, for TG women, oestrogen plus androgen-lowering agents. Due—but not limited—to the lifelong lasting HT, usually TG people experience several physical and behavioural conditions leading to different and specific susceptibility and vulnerability in comparison to general population, including the response to chemical contaminants present in daily life. In particular, the exposure to the widespread endocrine disrupters (EDs) may affect hormonal and metabolic processes, leading to tissue and organ damage. Since the endocrine system of TG people is overstimulated by HT and, often, the targets overlap with ED, it is reasonable to hypothesize that TG health deserves special attention. At present, no specific tools are available to study the toxicological effects of environmental contaminants, including EDs, and the potential long-term consequences of HT on TG people. In this context, the development of adequate and innovative animal models to mimic gender-affirming HT have a high priority, since they can provide robust data for hazard identification in TG women and men, leading to more reliable risk assessment.

Synthetic amorphous silica (SAS) nanomaterial – consisting of aggregates and agglomerates of primary silicon dioxide (SiO2) particles in the nanorange (

Humans are daily exposed to multiple residues of pesticides with agricultural workers representing a subpopulation at higher risk. In this context, the cumulative risk assessment of pesticide mixtures is an urgent issue. The present study evaluated, as a case study, the toxicological profiles of thirteen pesticide mixtures used for grapevine protection, including ten active compounds (sulfur, potassium phosphonate, metrafenone, zoxamide, cyflufenamid, quinoxyfen, mancozeb, folpet, penconazole and dimethomorph), at concentrations used on field. A battery of in vitro tests for cell viability and oxidative stress endpoints (cytotoxicity, apoptosis, necrosis, ROS production, mitochondrial membrane potential, gene expression of markers for apoptosis and oxidative stress) was performed on two cellular models representative of main target organs of workers’ and population exposure: pulmonary A549 and hepatic HepG2 cell lines. All the endpoints provided evidence for effects also at the lower concentrations used. The overall data were integrated into the ToxPI tool obtaining a toxicity ranking of the mixtures, allowing to prioritize effects also among similarly composed blends. The clustering of the toxicological profiles further provided evidence of common and different modes of action of the mixtures. The approach demonstrated to be suitable for the purpose and it could be applied also in other contexts.

International audience; The genotoxicity of nano-structured synthetic amorphous silica (SAS), a common food additive, was investigated in vivo in rats. A 90-day oral toxicity study was performed according to OECD test guideline 408 and the genotoxicity of pyrogenic SAS nanomaterial NM-203 was assessed in several organs, using complementary tests. Adult Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes were treated orally for 90 days with 0, 2, 5, 10, 20, or 50 mg SAS/kg bw per day. Dose levels were selected to approximate expected human dietary exposures to SAS. DNA strand breaks were evaluated by the comet assay in blood, bone marrow, liver, and spleen according to OECD test guideline 489; mutations induced in bone marrow precursors of erythrocytes were assessed by the Pig-a assay and chromosome/ genome damage by the micronucleus assay in blood (OECD test guideline 474) and colon. No treatment-related increases of gene (Pig-a) or chromosome/genome (micronucleus) mutations were detected in the blood. The percentage of micronucleated cells was not increased in the colon of treated rats. Among the organs analyzed by the comet assay, the spleen was the only target showing a weak but biologically relevant genotoxic effect.

Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer used in several items, non-covalently bound to plastics and easily released, since metabolites were found in human matrices. DEHP is an endocrine disrupter and children are particularly vulnerable and susceptible to DEHP effects due to higher exposure levels and developmental stage. A juvenile toxicity study was performed to identify DEHP hazard and mode of action in Sprague-Dawley rats of both sexes during peri-pubertal period - corresponding to childhood phase - from weaning, post-natal day (PND) 23, to full sexual maturity (PND60); the dose levels of 0, 9, 21 and 48 mg/kg bw/day were derived from LIFE PERSUADED biomonitoring study in children. DEHP was administered by gavage for 28 days (5 days/week); timing of preputial separation and vaginal opening was observed during treatment. Histopathological analysis was performed on: adrenals, spleen, liver, thyroid and reproductive organs. The following serum biomarkers were assessed: estradiol, testosterone, anti-Mullerian hormone, tetraiodothyronine, thyroid stimulating hormone, adiponectin and leptin. Gene expression on hypothalamic-pituitary area was focused on follicle stimulating, luteinizing, and thyroid stimulating hormones. The results showed that main targets of DEHP during juvenile period were liver and metabolic system in both sexes, while sex-specific effects were recorded in reproductive system (male rats) and in thyroid (female rats). DEHP exposure during peri-pubertal period at dose levels derived from biomonitoring study in children can induce sex-specific imbalances identifying the juvenile animal model as a sound tool to identify hazards for a reliable risk assessment targeted to children.

Synthetic amorphous silica (SAS) consists of agglomerates and aggregates of primary particles in the nanorange (

The Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a widespread plasticizer, is considered an endocrine disrupting chemical with main toxicological effects on reproductive and metabolic systems. Human biomonitoring (HBM) studies are promoted to evaluate the background exposure levels. In the frame of LIFE PERSUADED project, the HBM study measured DEHP main metabolites (mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, MEHP; 2-ethyl-5-hydroxy-hexylphthalate, MEHHP; 2-ethyl-5-oxo-hexylphthalate, MEOHP) in Italian children and adolescent (4–14 years old) according to geographical macro-areas and areas, age and sex. Children from the South and the Centre of Italy showed higher median levels of DEHP, as a sum of its metabolites (48.14 and 47.80 μg/L), than those from the North (39.47 μg/L; p = 0.0090 and 0.0004, respectively). Considering the total population, boys are more exposed than girls (only as urinary volume), and children aged 4–6 years have higher median levels than those 7–10 and 11–14 years old. The derived reference values (RV95) for DEHP in children is 168 μg/L. The relative metabolic rates of DEHP, the background levels and, thus, the RV95, vary with the geographical area, age and sex, indicating that all these parameters should be considered in the risk assessment.

International audience; Food additive E551 consists of synthetic amorphous silica (SAS), comprising agglomerates and aggregates of primary particles in the nanorange (

Mancozeb (MZ) and zoxamide (ZOX) are fungicides commonly used in pest control programs to protect vineyards. Their toxic and genotoxic potential were investigated in vitro on HepG2 and A549 cell lines at environmentally relevant concentrations. Cytotoxicity, apoptosis, necrosis and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), comet assay and a micronucleus test with CREST immunofluorescence were used. The expression of a panel of genes involved in apoptosis/necrosis (BAX/BCL2), oxidative stress (NRF2), drug metabolism (CYP1A1) and DNA repair (ERCC1/OGG1) was evaluated by real-time PCR. Both fungicides were cytotoxic at the highest tested concentrations (295.7 and 463.4 µM, respectively), MZ induced necrosis, ZOX did not increase apoptosis but modulated BAX and BCL2 expression, suggesting a different mechanism. Both compounds did not increase ROS, but the induction of CYP1A1 and NRF2 expression supported a pro-oxidant mechanism. The comet assay evidenced MZ genotoxicity, whereas no DNA damage due to ZOX treatment was observed. Positive micronuclei were increased in both cell lines treated with MZ and ZOX, supporting their aneugenic potential. ERCC1 and OGG1 were differently modulated, indicating the efficient activation of the nucleotide excision repair system by both fungicides and the inhibition of the base excision repair system by MZ. Overall, MZ confirmed its toxicity and new ZOX-relevant effects were highlighted.

Children show unique features concerning chemical hazards and risks, due to different exposure scenarios, age-related metabolic capacity and biological susceptibility linked to post-natal development. Chemical Regulatory frameworks state the need of children risk characterization. Current testing guidelines covering post-natal development are not routinely required by regulatory applications other than pesticides and biocides. Juvenile toxicity studies are foreseen for paediatric drugs: the toxicological repeated-dose tests don’t allow accurate evaluations of effects upon direct exposure of immature organism. The paper discusses a testing approach aimed to address regulatory requirements of chemical hazard identification/characterization in a children-specific perspective. Juvenile toxicity test could be performed primarily on chemicals that may have relevant modes of action and/or age-related toxicokinetic differences and/or lead to important children exposure. This could be pursued by updating existing guidelines/test protocols with triggers for endpoints relevant to juvenile toxicity.

The present study investigated potential modulatory effects of low doses of nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO2) on intestinal cells in vivo and in vitro. After short-term exposure to TiO2 nanoparticles in rats, histopathological analysis of intestinal tissues indicated a gender-specific effect with increased length of intestinal villi in male rats only. Moreover the intestinal tissue showed nanoparticle deposition as revealed by ICP-MS determination of titanium. Increased serum testosterone levels were also detected. Considering the male-specific effects detected in vivo, the TiO2 nanoparticle interaction with intestinal cells was further characterized in vitro and the modulating effect of testosterone and a hormone-induced growth factor, namely Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), was also assessed. Cytotoxicity assays and analysis of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production showed neither cellular alteration nor oxidative stress for nanoparticles at low concentrations, even though they were able to penetrate intestinal cells, as revealed by electron microscopy. Cell treatments with nanoparticles in association with testosterone or IGF-1 showed increased cell proliferation, compared to nanoparticles or testosterone/IGF-1 alone. Since long-term intake of TiO2 nanoparticles at low doses is a relevant scenario for human exposure, attention should be given to the potential modulating activity of this nanomaterial on cell proliferation.

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to investigate bisphenol A (BPA) and its role in the induction of oxidative stress and confirm the same for tobacco smoke. Methods. A total of 223 young, healthy students (7&ndash, 19 years old) were recruited in Chivasso, Italy. A spot of urine of each subject was analyzed to quantify BPA, cotinine, and 15F2t-isoprostane. Results. BPA showed a slight increase of concentration proportional with increasing age, even though the 11&ndash, 14 years age group had slightly lower results, inducing a V-shape. The same trend was observed for 15F2t-isoprostane and cotinine. The result of piecewise linear robust regression shows a break point of the effect of BPA on 15F2t-isoprostane at 6 ng/mg CREA (p &lt, 0.001). At higher levels, 15F2t-isoprostane shows an exponential increase by more than threefold for each one-log unit of BPA. An increase of oxidative stress due to BPA was observed, but only from 6 ng/mg of CREA up. Passive tobacco smoke is also able to induce an increase in oxidative stress. Conclusion. Prevention against BPA and passive tobacco smoke represents an important tool for promoting the highest health standard.

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of bisphenol (BP) exposure on pregnancy and neonatal life. We have (a) determined BP (BPA and BPS) concentration levels in a group of newborns and their mothers, (b) identified factors, habits, and devices possibly responsible for BP uptake, and (c) determined the effect of BP exposure. No significant correlations were detected between maternal and neonatal BP concentration levels. In newborns, positive correlations between pacifier use and BPS total (p = 0.04) and free BPS (p = 0.03) concentrations were detected. A significant correlation was also found between oral glucose administration and concentration levels of free BPA (p &lt, 0.05). Our study points to a central role of lifestyle, hospital procedures, and neonatal devices in inducing BP exposure, especially during the perinatal period. This is the first report of BP contamination in newborns due to widely non-alimentary products designed for newborn care, such as glucose-solution containers for BPA and pacifiers for BPS. Further studies are advocated in order to clarify both the impact of other BP forms on human health and development, as well as potential BPA exposure sources during neonatal and childhood life.

In the last years, silver nanoparticle (AgNP) use is increased due to the presence in several consumer products, including cosmetics and food packaging, for their antimicrobial activities. Silver in its elemental form is authorised as food additive E174 and EFSA noted that approximately a 20% of AgNPs are released from confectionary pearls. Toxicological assessment of E174 performed by EFSA concluded that the available information was insufficient to assess the safety for consumers and one of the major issue was the in vivo genotoxic potential. Aim of the present study was to provide data on in vivo genotoxicity of AgNPs by Alkaline Comet Assay - according to the OECD Test Guideline (TG) 489 - and by Micronucleus Assay. AgNP dispersions (20 nm) were orally administered to male and female mice for three days at 50, 150, 300 mg/kg bw per day on the basis of the OECD TG 489. AgNP dispersions were fully characterized. Comet assay was performed on blood, liver, spleen, duodenum and kidney, and Micronucleus assay on spleen lymphocytes, to evaluate the genotoxic potential. Biodistribution and histopathological assessment were performed. AgNPs accumulated in duodenum as first contact site and transferred to other target tissues; in liver and duodenum they were free in the cytoplasm or included in organelles but never in the nucleus, as detected by Transmission Electron Microscope analysis. No genotoxic or tissue damage was recorded by both assays in all the tested tissues. The in vivo genotoxicity data supported a more comprehensive risk assessment of AgNPs.

Beauvericin (BEA) and Enniatins (ENN) are mycotoxins produced by Fusarium fungi detected in food and feed; there are insufficient data to establish their reference values. To evaluate BEA and ENN oral toxicity, an integrated approach was applied. Among ENN, Enniatin B (ENNB) was selected as test substance. The approach is composed by: i) in vitro and acute in vivo genotoxicity tests; ii) a repeated-dose oral toxicity study focused on genotoxic, immune, endocrine, nervous endpoints and the reproductive/developmental toxicity screening. For BEA, all the genotoxicity endpoints yielded negative results excluding Comet assay in duodenum and kidney after repeated doses. BEA immunotoxicity was observed in female mice, concentrated in number and functional activity of effector T cells in the spleen. Based on the repeated-dose BEA study, the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for female mice is 1 mg/kg b.w. per day (increased thyroid pycnotic nuclei and endometrial hyperplasia). In males, the NOAEL is 0.1 mg/kg b.w. per day (reduced colloid and altered T4 serum levels). Maternal NOAEL is 0.1 mg/kg b.w. per day (increased thymus weight), developmental NOAEL is 10 mg/kg b.w. per day. For ENNB, the results support a genotoxic effect in bone marrow and liver cells after acute treatment, but not after repeated exposure. Immunotoxic ENNB effects were observed in both genders, suggestive of a suppressive/inhibiting activity particularly evident in males. Based on the repeated-dose ENNB study, the NOAEL for females is 0.18 mg/kg b.w. per day (histomorphometrical effects on thymus, uterus and spleen). In male mice, the NOAEL is 1.8 mg/kg b.w. per day (enterocyte vacuolization in duodenum and increased Reactive Oxygen Species and reduced Glutathione brain levels). The maternal NOAEL is 1.8 mg/kg b.w. per day (decreased white pulp area and increased red/white pulp area ratio in spleen), developmental NOAEL is 18 mg/kg b.w. per day.

Developmental health risks of chronical exposure to low doses of foodborne persistent organic pollutants (POP) are recognized but still largely uncharacterized. Juvenile female BALB/c mice exposed to either HBCD, CB-153 or TCDD at doses relevant to human dietary exposures (49.5 μg, 1.35 μg and 0.90 ng kg−1 bw−1 day−1, respectively) for 28 days displayed histopathological changes in liver (HBCD, CB-153, TCDD), thymus (HBCD, CB-153) and uterus (HBCD), reduced serum oestradiol 17β (E2) levels (HBCD), increased serum testosterone (T) levels (CB-153) and an increased T/E2 ratio (HBCD). Proteomics analysis of brain provided molecular support for the HBCD-induced reduction in E2. Neural gene expression analysis, confirmed effects on 18 out of 30 genes previously found to be affected after exposure to higher doses to the same pollutants. Our findings indicate that exposure to POP at low doses is associated with subtle, but toxicological relevant effects on post-natal development in female mice.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widespread endocrine disrupter mainly used in food contact plastics. Much evidence supports the adverse effects of BPA, particularly on susceptible groups such as pregnant women. The present study considered placental development – relevant for pregnancy outcomes and fetal nutrition/programming – as a potential target of BPA. Pregnant CD-1 mice were administered per os with vehicle, 0.5 (BPA05) or 50 mg kg−1 (BPA50) body weight day−1 of BPA, from gestational day (GD) 1 to GD11. At GD12, BPA50 induced significant degeneration and necrosis of giant cells, increased vacuolization in the junctional zone in the absence of glycogen accumulation and reduction of the spongiotrophoblast layer. In addition, BPA05 induced glycogen depletion as well as significant nuclear accumulation of β-catenin in trophoblasts of labyrinthine and spongiotrophoblast layers, supporting the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that BPA05 promoted and BPA50 inhibited blood vessel development and branching; morphologically, maternal vessels were narrower in BPA05 placentas, whereas embryonic and maternal vessels were irregularly dilated in the labyrinth of BPA50 placentas. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction evidenced an estrogen receptor β induction by BPA50, which did not correspond to downstream genes activation; indeed, the transcription factor binding sites analysis supported the AhR/Arnt complex as regulator of BPA50-modulated genes. Conversely, Creb appeared as the main transcription factor regulating BPA05-modulated genes. Embryonic structures (head, forelimb) showed divergent perturbations upon BPA05 or BPA50 exposure, potentially related to unbalanced embryonic nutrition and/or to modulation of genes involved in embryo development. Our findings support placenta as an important target of BPA, even at environmentally relevant dose levels. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Background Studies on the prevalence of eczema and atopic dermatitis (AD), and on the factors associated with these diseases, have been mostly performed in children, whereas studies on adult populations are lacking. Objectives To determine the prevalence of eczema and AD in the Italian adult population, and to investigate risk factors associated with the disease. Methods A postal screening questionnaire was administered to 18 357 randomly selected subjects aged 20–44 years in the Gene–Environment Interaction in Respiratory Diseases study, which involved seven centres distributed across northern, central and southern Italy. The questionnaire included items on the occurrence of doctor-diagnosed eczema, asthma and hay fever, socio-demographic characteristics and environmental exposures. Results In all, 10 464 (57.0%) subjects responded to the questionnaire. The prevalence of current eczema was 8.1% (95% CI: 7.6–8.7%), while the prevalence of eczema with asthma and/or hay fever (EAH), which was adopted as proxy of AD, was 3.4% (95% CI: 3.1–3.8%). About 60% of the subjects with current eczema reported the onset of the disease in adulthood. In multi-variable models, the prevalence of eczema was significantly associated with female sex, older age, living close to industrial plants, high levels of heavy traffic near home and living in central-southern Italy. Conclusions Eczema and EAH are highly prevalent in Italian young adults, especially in women. Our results suggest that adult onset is not unusual, and that environmental factors may influence the occurrence of eczema and EAH.

Background: environmental pollution, mostly in urban area, represents an increasing burden in human health (WHO, Global update 2005). However, the effects of pollutants on the respiratory impedance are not well known, especially in childhood and adolescence. Aim: to investigate the impact of environmental exposure on the respiratory function in school-aged children. Methods: 175 children (from 7 to 19 years) underwent to spirometry and impedance measurement by using forced oscillation technique (FOT, Resmon PRO FULL, Restech, Italy). Total respiratory resistance at 5 Hz (R tot5 ), total respiratory reactance at 5 Hz (X tot5 ) and FEV 1 /FVC% were compared to the level of exposure to pollutants, reported by patients through questionnaire and measured through a urinary biomarker of tobacco smoke exposure (cotinine). The relative risk (OR) of abnormal R tot5 , X tot5 and FEV 1 /FVC% have been computed by means of logistic regression analysis for the level of exposure to pollutants (table). Results: both spirometry and FOT parameters revealed a risk of impairment of the respiratory function in active smokers. Furthermore, FOT parameters demonstrated a reduction of the respiratory function also in children exposed to passive smoking and high traffic. Conclusions: high traffic exposure and active and passive exposure to tobacco smoke can reduce the respiratory function in childhood.

Background: Asthma and allergy often go hand-in-hand. In the frame of GEIRD Network (www.geird.org), the aim of our study was to assess the clinical relevance of positive skin prick test reactions to inhalant allergens considering self-reported asthma symptoms. Methods: 2178 subjects were enrolled (ranges 20-69). Rhinasthma QoL questionnaire score was recorded while atopy was defined as at least one SPT positive (diameter of reaction ≥3 mm). Asthma was defined by self-reported asthmatic symptoms confirmed by a medical doctor during the lifetime. The correlation between sensitization and asthma was assessed using ordinal logistic regression analysis classifying the Rhinasthma in tertiles. RESULTS: 391 subjects declared to have had asthma in their lives (132 with attacks in the last year). The risk (OR) of ever asthma (controlling for allergic rhinitis) was 2.98 folds (CI 95% 2.23-3.97) in atopic versus non atopic subjects and 35.7 (CI 95% 23.6-54.1) in subjects with both asthma and rhinitis. 77% of the atopic asthmatics had more than 1 SPT positive (median 5 SPT positive). Cat allergy was the best predictor of having asthma (OR 3.33, CI 95% 1.98-5.61) followed by pollens (OR 2.6 CI 95% 1.5-4.2) and dust mites (OR 1.71, CI 95% 1.08-2.71). The OR of being in the higher tertile of Rhinasthma score increased for each mm of increase of the diameter of the largest SPT reaction. The increase of risk (OR 3.2) was high in subjects with associated rhinitis. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of evaluating the clinical relevance of positive skin prick tests considering the atopy and the intensity of SPT reaction as predictor of more severe asthma, particularly if associated to allergic rhinitis.

The present study investigated potential modulatory effects of low doses of nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO

Ethylenethiourea (ETU) is the common metabolite of the widely used ethylenebisdithiocarbamate fungicides. It is identified as Endocrine Disruptor given its ability to interfere with thyroid hormone biosynthesis by inhibiting thyroid peroxidase activity. As far as we know, no studies have been performed to assess potential effects of ETU exposure at low dose levels, i.e. below the established LOAEL and NOAEL, during critical phases of development. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to verify the short- and long-term effects on thyroid function, reproduction and development of oral exposure to ETU levels comparable to and lower than LOAEL/NOAEL in rats. Sixty dams were treated daily by gavage during pregnancy and lactation with 0, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0 mg/kg bw per day of ETU. F1 generation was similarly treated from weaning to sexual maturity. Thyroid biomarkers were analyzed in dams and in offspring. Reproductive biomarkers were analyzed in F1 rats. For the first time this study has demonstrated reproductive toxicity and hypothyroidism at a lower than LOAEL dose exposure in pregnant dams and F1 generation. Our data suggest that even low doses of ETU can interfere with thyroid homeostasis and reproductive hormone profile if exposure starts in critical stages of development.

Toxicologists must ensure that clinical risk-to-benefit analysis should be made both for genders and age groups, with any treatment. Puberty concerns physiological changes leading to organism's maturation. Pubertal growth disorders are increasing in last decades: besides causing physical and psychological distress, they may signal underlying endocrine-metabolic abnormalities with serious health consequences later on. Therapeutic approaches for some health conditions in childhood and adolescence are considered.The authors discuss how some diseases and treatments can impact pubertal growth. The authors look at particular immunological disorders such as asthma and how both the disease and treatment affects pubertal growth. They also discuss how the provision of available data can help to assess the dose-response of the drug, in these cases, and minimize the chance of side effects. The authors also discuss pediatric inflammatory bowel disease and how both the disease and treatment can mitigate the growth delay. Last, but not least, the authors discuss how the effects of the drugs used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders may accentuate endocrine issues in juvenile patients. Hyperprolactinemia induction by some antipsychotics is highlighted as an example.Appropriate risk-benefit analysis of drugs prescribed during childhood and adolescence and intended to be used in the long term is required. Furthermore, future treatment strategies and safer compounds development should be supported by the knowledge of mechanisms underlying adverse side effects in pubertal growth and development.

Fish represents source of nutrients and major dietary vehicle of lipophilic persistent contaminants. The study compared the effects of two legacy and two emerging fish pollutants (Hexabromocyclododecane HBCD; 2,2′,4,4′-Tetrabromodiphenyl ether BDE-47; 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-Hexachlorobiphenyl PCB-153; 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-doxin TCDD) in juvenile female mice exposed through a salmon based rodent diet for 28 days (dietary doses: HBCD 199 mg/kg bw/day; BDE-47 450 μg/kg bw/day; PCB-153 195 μg/kg bw/day; TCDD 90 ng/kg bw/day). Dose levels were comparable to previously reported developmental Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Levels. None of the treatments elicited signs of overt toxicity, but HBCD increased relative liver weight. All compounds caused changes in liver, thymus and thyroid; spleen was affected by BDE-47 and PCB-153; no effects were seen in uterus and adrenals. Strongest effects in thyroid follicles were elicited by PCB-153, in thymus and liver by BDE-47. HBCD and BDE-47 induced liver fatty changes, but appeared to be less potent in the other tissues. HBCD, BDE-47 and TCDD increased serum testosterone levels and the testosterone/estradiol ratio, suggesting a potential involvement of pathways related to sex steroid biosynthesis and/or metabolism. The results support the role of toxicological studies on juvenile rodents in the hazard characterization of chemicals, due to endocrine and/or immune effects.

Background Air pollution can cause respiratory symptoms or exacerbate pre-existing respiratory diseases, especially in children. This study looked at the short-term association of air pollution concentrations with Emergency Room (ER) admissions for respiratory reasons in pediatric age (0–18 years). Methods Daily number of ER admissions in a children’s Hospital, concentrations of urban-background PM2.5, NO2, O3 and total aeroallergens (Corylaceae, Cupressaceae, Gramineae, Urticaceae, Ambrosia, Betula) were collected in Turin, northwestern Italy, for the period 1/08/2008 to 31/12/2010 (883 days). The associations between exposures and ER admissions were estimated, at time lags between 0 and 5 days, using generalized linear Poisson regression models, adjusted for non-meteorological potential confounders. Results In the study period, 21,793 ER admissions were observed, mainly (81 %) for upper respiratory tract infections. Median air pollution concentrations were 22.0, 42.5, 34.1 μg/m3 for urban-background PM2.5, NO2, and O3, respectively, and 2.9 grains/m3 for aeroallergens. We found that ER admissions increased by 1.3 % (95 % CI: 0.3-2.2 %) five days after a 10 μg/m3 increase in NO2, and by 0.7 % (95 % CI: 0.1-1.2 %) one day after a 10 grains/m3 increase in aeroallergens, while they were not associated with PM2.5 concentrations. ER admissions were negatively associated with O3 and aeroallergen concentrations at some time lags, but these association shifted to the null when meteorological confounders were adjusted for in the models. Conclusions Overall, these findings confirm adverse short-term health effects of air pollution on the risk of ER admission in children and encourage a careful management of the urban environment to health protection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12889-016-3376-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Semicarbazide (SEM) is a by-product of the blowing agent azodicarbonamide, present in glass jar-sealed foodstuffs mainly baby foods. The pleiotropic in vivo SEM toxicological effects suggested to explore its possible role as endocrine modulator. Endocrine effects of SEM were assessed in vivo in male and female rats after oral administration for 28 days at 0, 40, 75, 140 mg/kg bw pro die during the juvenile period. Vaginal opening and preputial separation were recorded. Concentration of sex steroid in blood, the ex vivo hepatic aromatase activity and testosterone catabolism were detected. The in vitro approach to test SEM role as (anti)estrogen or N-methyl- d -aspartate receptors (NMDARs)-(anti)agonist included different assays: yeast estrogenicity, MCF-7 proliferation, stimulation of the alkaline phosphatase activity in Ishikawa cells and LNCaP-based NMDAR interference assay. In vivo SEM-treated female rats showed delayed vaginal opening at all tested doses, whereas in males preputial separation was anticipated at SEM 40 and 75 mg/kg and delayed at 140 mg/kg, the latter effect probably due to the significantly decreased body weight gain seen at the higher dose in both sexes. Serum estrogen levels were dose-dependently reduced in treated females, whereas dehydrotestosterone serum levels were also decreased but a clear dose–response was not evidenced. Testosterone catabolism was altered in a gender-related way, aromatase activity was increased in treated males at 75 and 140 mg/kg and in females in all dose groups. In the three estradiol-competitive assays, SEM showed a weak anti-estrogenic activity, whereas in the LNCaP-based NMDAR interference assay SEM activity resembled MK-801 antagonist effect. SEM appeared to act as an endocrine disrupter showing multiple and gender specific mechanisms of action(s). A possible cascade-mechanism of SEM on reproductive signalling pathways may be hypothesized. Such in vivo–in vitro approach appeared to be an useful tool to highlight SEM activity on endocrine homeostasis.

Organophosphorus insecticides, as Chlorpyrifos (CPF), are widely used in agriculture and against household pests; these compounds receive an increasing consideration as potential endocrine disrupters. The aim of the present study was to examine the potential short- and long-term effects of CPF on thyroid and adrenal glands in CD1 mice following exposure at dose levels not inducing brain acetyl cholinesterase (AchE) inhibition, during gestational and/or postnatal vulnerable phases. Pregnant dams were treated with 0, 3, 6 mg/kg bw/day of CPF on gestational days 15-18. After delivery, pups were treated subcutaneously on postnatal days (PND) 11-14 with: 0, 1, 3 mg/kg bw/day of CPF. Serum thyroxin (T4), thyroid and adrenals histology and histomorphometry were evaluated in dams and in F1 mice. In dams at 6 mg/kg, decreased T4 levels and increased cell height in thyroid were observed, and adrenal histology showed a slightly increased vacuolization in the X-zone. In the F1, short-term morphological modifications (reduced follicular size at PND 2) and long-term morphological (increased necrotic follicular cells) and biochemical alterations (reduced serum T4 levels) were found at PND 150 with an apparent higher vulnerability of males. For the first time these results indicate that CPF exposure at dose levels not inducing brain AchE inhibition causes thyroid alterations in dams and in F1 CD1 mice. Thyroid may be a sensitive target to CPF developmental exposure possibly leading to long-term effects on thyroid function. Because thyroid plays a pivotal role in mammalian development, these findings can be relevant to humans.

Semicarbazide (SEM) is an azodicarbonamide by-product present in glass jar packaged foods including babyfoods, in bleaching steps and flour treatment. Experimental data showed SEM acting as osteolathyrogen agent, but few toxicological data are available in susceptible life-stages. This study aimed to evaluate effects of SEM oral administration for 28 days at 0, 40, 75, 140 mg/kg bw day during the juvenile period in Sprague-Dawley rats. Histopatological examinations of: epiphyseal cartilage - potential target of SEM lathyrogen action - testes, ovary, uterus, thyroid, thymus, spleen, adrenals, representative of the main developing organs relevant to juvenile toxicity, and neurobehavioural tests in males, were performed. Mortality at high and mid dose levels and significantly decreased body weight gain were observed in males even at the lowest dose. Lack of mineralization in cartilage at all dose levels was present. Marked alterations of spontaneous motor and exploratory behaviours were evident even at 40 mg/kg. Histological alterations were observed in all tissues; thyroid and ovary effects were present also at 40 mg/kg. The present study indicate that the NOAEL in juvenile rats is lower than 40 mg/kg for SEM oral administration. SEM administration during juvenile period exerted pleiotropic effects and further studies are suggested to elucidate mechanisms.

Background/Aims: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used as flame retardants and have shown endocrine disruption properties in experimental studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the exposure to PBDEs and alterations of puberty in girls referred for idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP) and premature thelarche (PT). Methods: A case-control study was conducted in 124 girls: 37 girls with ICPP (mean age 7.4 ± 0.9 years), 56 with PT (mean age 5.7 ± 2.1 years) and 31 controls (mean age 5.4 ± 1.9 years). PBDE serum concentrations, hormone levels and anthropometry were assessed. PBDE concentrations were corrected for total serum lipid content. Individual exposure to PBDEs was evaluated through ad hoc questionnaires. Results: PBDE serum concentrations corrected for total lipid content were significantly higher in girls with PT (mean 1.49 ± 0.63 log ng/g) than in controls (mean 1.23 ± 0.54 log ng/g; p < 0.05). PT girls showed higher levels of PBDE than ICPP girls (1.49 ± 0.63 vs. 1.37 ± 0.49 log ng/g), though this was not significant. An analysis of the questionnaires revealed no significant differences in exposure between the three groups. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that higher concentrations of serum PBDEs are associated with PT in girls.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widespread endocrine disrupter mainly used in food contact plastics. Much evidence supports the adverse effects of BPA, particularly on susceptible groups such as pregnant women. The present study considered placental development - relevant for pregnancy outcomes and fetal nutrition/programming - as a potential target of BPA. Pregnant CD-1 mice were administered per os with vehicle, 0.5 (BPA05) or 50 mg kg(-1) (BPA50) body weight day(-1) of BPA, from gestational day (GD) 1 to GD11. At GD12, BPA50 induced significant degeneration and necrosis of giant cells, increased vacuolization in the junctional zone in the absence of glycogen accumulation and reduction of the spongiotrophoblast layer. In addition, BPA05 induced glycogen depletion as well as significant nuclear accumulation of β-catenin in trophoblasts of labyrinthine and spongiotrophoblast layers, supporting the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that BPA05 promoted and BPA50 inhibited blood vessel development and branching; morphologically, maternal vessels were narrower in BPA05 placentas, whereas embryonic and maternal vessels were irregularly dilated in the labyrinth of BPA50 placentas. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction evidenced an estrogen receptor β induction by BPA50, which did not correspond to downstream genes activation; indeed, the transcription factor binding sites analysis supported the AhR/Arnt complex as regulator of BPA50-modulated genes. Conversely, Creb appeared as the main transcription factor regulating BPA05-modulated genes. Embryonic structures (head, forelimb) showed divergent perturbations upon BPA05 or BPA50 exposure, potentially related to unbalanced embryonic nutrition and/or to modulation of genes involved in embryo development. Our findings support placenta as an important target of BPA, even at environmentally relevant dose levels.

Puberty is regulated by the endocrine system, which when disrupted can affect reproductive health. Endocrine disrupters (ED) are involved in the pathogenesis of idiopathic central precocious puberty (ICPP). Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) are lipophilic, persistent ED used as flame retardants in several products; thus, human population is exposed through food and domestic dust. PBDE exposure during the peripubertal period is suspected to interfere with reproductive development. The study aimed to investigate PBDE serum concentration in 31 girls with ICPP as well as describe their dietary habits and lifestyles. The PBDE median level was 59 ng/g of lipids, higher than in healthy girls in comparable studies. Interestingly, elder girls and girls with higher body mass index (BMI) showed higher PBDE serum levels. Considering the relevance of altered puberty onset as a risk factor for reproductive health, studies on food contribution to PBDE exposure in Italian children, and efforts to ameliorate risk assessment for emerging chemicals are suggested.

In European Union, titanium dioxide (TiO2) as bulk material is a food additive (E171) and - as nanoparticle (NP) - is used as a white pigment in several products (e.g. food, cosmetics, drugs). E171 contains approximately 36% of particles less than 100 nm in at least one dimension and TiO2 NP exposure is estimated fairly below 2.5 mg/person/day. The gastrointestinal tract is a route of entry for NPs, thus representing a potential target of effects. In in vivo study, the effects of TiO2 NP in adult rat small intestine have been evaluated by oral administration of 0 (CTRL), 1 and 2 mg/kg body weight per day - relevant to human dietary intake. Detailed quali/quantitative histopathological analyses were performed on CTRL and treated rat samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed on small intestine. An in vitro study on Caco-2 cells was also used in order to evaluate the potential cytotoxic effects directly on enterocytes through the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. Suspensions of TiO2...

Background Chronic respiratory diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. We sought to evaluate the impact of asthma, chronic bronchitis and allergic rhinitis on allcause hospitalizations and limitations in daily activities in adults. Methods In the Gene Environment Interactions in Respiratory Diseases study (2007/2010), a screening questionnaire was mailed to 9,739 subjects aged 20–44 (response rate: 53.0%) and to 3,480 subjects aged 45–64 (response rate: 62.3%), who were randomly selected from the general population in Italy. The questionnaire was used to: identify the responders who had asthma, chronic bronchitis, allergic rhinitis or asthma-like symptoms/dyspnoea/other nasal problems; evaluate the total burden [use of hospital services (at least one ED visit and/or one hospital admission) and number of days with reduced activities (lost working days and days with limited, not work related activities) due to any health problems (apart from accidents and injuries) in the past three months]; evaluate the contribution of breathing problems to the total burden (hospitalizations and number of days with reduced activities specifically due to breathing problems). Results At any age, the all-cause hospitalization risk was about 6% among the subjects without any respiratory conditions, it increased to about 9-12% among the individuals with allergic rhinitis or with asthma-like symptoms/dyspnoea/other nasal problems, and it peaked at about 15-18% among the asthmatics with chronic bronchitis aged 20–44 and 45–64, respectively. The expected number of days with reduced activities due to any health problems increased from 1.5 among the subjects with no respiratory conditions in both the age classes, to 6.3 and 4.6 among the asthmatics with chronic bronchitis aged 20–44 and 45–64, respectively. The contribution of breathing problems to the total burden was the highest among the asthmatics with chronic bronchitis (23-29% of the hospitalization risk and 39-50% of the days with reduced activities, according to age). Conclusions The impact of asthma, chronic bronchitis and allergic rhinitis on all-cause hospitalizations and limitations in daily activities is substantial, and it is markedly different among adults from the general population in Italy. The contribution of breathing problems to the total burden also varies according to the respiratory condition.