Levels of Essential and Trace Elements in Mozzarella Available on the Slovak Market with the Estimation of Consumer Exposure.

The aim of this study was to determinate the content of some elements in a specific dairy product, mozzarella, in a particular area of western Slovakia and to evaluate the estimation of the risk to the consumers based on the contribution to the provisional tolerable weekly intake. The consumption of mozzarella can contribute to the intake of important elements in the diet, such as calcium and magnesium, along with others. The contents of some toxic and trace elements were low and have not exceeded the permitted limit. In addition, the contribution to PTWI was found to be very low, which means that the consumption of mozzarella possesses no risk to humans. It is concluded that the data obtained in this study can help as a valuable addition to methodological and scientific material in the field of food safety of dairy products and their positive impact on human health.

Effects of Selected Metal Nanoparticles (Ag, ZnO, TiO2) on the Structure and Function of Reproductive Organs.

Various studies have shown that the reproductive organs are highly sensitive to toxic elements found in the environment. Due to technological progress, the use of nanoparticles has become more common nowadays. Nanoparticles are used for drug delivery because their dimensions allow them to circulate throughout the body and enter directly into the cell. Antimicrobial properties are increasingly used in the manufacture of medical devices, textiles, food packaging, cosmetics, and other consumer products. Nanoparticles provide several benefits, but aspects related to their effects on living organisms and the environment are not well known. This review summarizes current in vivo, and in vitro animal studies focused on the evaluation of toxicity of selected metal nanoparticles (Ag, ZnO, TiO2) on male and female reproductive health. It can be concluded that higher concentrations of metal nanoparticles in the male reproductive system can cause a decrease in spermatozoa motility, viability and disruption of membrane integrity. Histopathological changes of the testicular epithelium, infiltration of inflammatory cells in the epididymis, and prostatic hyperplasia have been observed. Nanoparticles in the female reproductive system caused their accumulation in the ovaries and uterus. Metal nanoparticles most likely induce polycystic ovary syndrome and follicular atresia, inflammation, apoptosis, and necrosis also occurred.

Exogenous Factors Affecting the Functional Integrity of Male Reproduction.

Natural processes along with increased industrial production and the irresponsible behavior of mankind have resulted in environmental pollution. Environmental pollutants can be categorized based on their characteristics and appearance into the following groups: physical, biological, and chemical. Every single one of them represents a serious threat to the male reproductive tract despite the different modes of action. Male gonads and gametes are especially vulnerable to the effect of exogenous factors; therefore, they are considered a reliable indicator of environmental pollution. The impact of xenobiotics or radiation leads to an irreversible impairment of fertility displayed by histological changes, modulated androgen production, or compromised spermatozoa (or germ cells) quality. The present article reviews the exogenous threats, male reproductive system, the mode of action, and overall impact on the reproductive health of humans and animals.

Effect of Three Months Pilates Training on Balance and Fall Risk in Older Women.

This study assessed the effect of Pilates exercises on balance and fall risk in older women. Participants comprised 50 older women aged over 60 years, divided randomly into two groups: the experimental group (n = 30), which took part in Pilates sessions two times per week for three months, and the control group (n = 20). The control group did not participate in such sessions but also did not participate in any other rehabilitation programs or additional physical activity except everyday activities. Before and after the training cycle, all women underwent an assessment using Timed Up and Go (TUG), the One Leg Stance Test (OLST), a test performed on a Freestep baropodometric platform, and the tests performed on a Biosway platform. After the training, significantly decreased values of the surface of the ellipse (p = 0.0037) and mean values of velocity (p = 0.0262) for the right foot in the experimental group were observed. The Limits of Stability (LoS) test (p = 0.005) and the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (m-CTSIB) performed on an unstable surface with eyes closed (p = 0.0409) indicated statistically significant changes in the experimental group. None of the above changes were statistically significant in relation to the control group. Pilates training affected the participants' balance by improving LOS and reducing fall risk.

Effects of Cadmium, Lead, and Mercury on the Structure and Function of Reproductive Organs.

Reproductive organs are essential not only for the life of an individual but also for the survival and development of the species. The response of reproductive organs to toxic substances differs from that of other target organs, and they may serve as an ideal "barometer" for the deleterious effects of environmental pollution on animal and human health. The incidence of infertility, cancers, and associated maladies has increased in the last fifty years or more, while various anthropogenic activities have released into the environment numerous toxic substances, including cadmium, lead, and mercury. Data from epidemiological studies suggested that environmental exposure to cadmium, lead, and mercury may have produced reproductive and developmental toxicity. The present review focused on experimental studies using rats, mice, avian, and rabbits to demonstrate unambiguously effects of cadmium, lead, or mercury on the structure and function of reproductive organs. In addition, relevant human studies are discussed. The experimental studies reviewed have indicated that the testis and ovary are particularly sensitive to cadmium, lead, and mercury because these organs are distinguished by an intense cellular activity, where vital processes of spermatogenesis, oogenesis, and folliculogenesis occur. In ovaries, manifestation of toxicity induced by cadmium, lead, or mercury included decreased follicular growth, occurrence of follicular atresia, degeneration of the corpus luteum, and alterations in cycle. In testes, toxic effects following exposure to cadmium, lead, or mercury included alterations of seminiferous tubules, testicular stroma, and decrease of spermatozoa count, motility and viability, and aberrant spermatozoa morphology.

Essential and xenobiotic elements in cottage cheese from the Slovak market with a consumer risk assessment.

The examination of various elements in the milk products is very important in the food sector in respect of food quality and safety. The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of calcium (Ca), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), nickel (Ni), phosphorus (P), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in white cottage cheese or cottage cheese supplemented with various additives (white, lacto-free, chive, tzatziki, mustard + onion, chili, active protein) available on the market of Slovakia. All essential elements were within the reference range. Cottage cheese enriched with tzatziki showed higher amount of Cu, Fe, K, and Zn. Mustard + onion cheese contained high values of Ca, Co, Mg, and Ni. In white cottage cheese high amount of Cr, Mn, and P was measured. The content of xenobiotic metals was below permitted limit. The contribution to PTWI (Provisional tolerable weekly intake) suggested very low dietary exposure to heavy metals as Cd, Hg, and Pb as well as other metals (Cu, Ni, and Zn) in cottage cheese. Numerous correlations between concentrations were observed. MOE (Margin of Exposure) evaluation denoted that average consumption of cottage cheese does not pose any high cardiovascular and nephrotoxicity threat.

Blood mercury levels in mute swans (Cygnus olor) are not related to sex, but are related to age, with no blood parameter implications.

Concentrations of mercury (Hg) were examined in the blood of mute swans from rural breeding sites and urban wintering areas in southern parts of Poland, Europe. The birds were classified into three age groups: cygnets, juveniles and adults. To investigate the potential impact of Hg on birds, hematocrit (Ht), reduced glutathione (GSH) levels and morphometric measurements were taken. Using morphometric parameters, we stated that all mute swans sampled were in good condition. The mercury concentrations found were rather low and differed between birds from industrialized wintering areas and rural breeding areas (means 7 ng/mL and 2 ng/mL, respectively). We found no difference in Hg concentrations between the sexes, but concentrations varied significantly between age groups (cygnets 2 ng/mL, juveniles 7 ng/mL and adults 6 ng/mL). A similar trend was observed for hematocrit levels. GSH levels did not differ between any of the groups studied. We found no significant relationship between blood parameters (Ht, GSH) in relation to Hg concentrations. We conclude that the Hg concentrations in blood may be influenced by industrialization, season and age, but generally low concentration such as those found by us do not affect Ht and GSH levels.

Levels of Essential and Xenobiotic Elements and Their Relationships in Milk Available on the Slovak Market with the Estimation of Consumer Exposure.

The monitoring of various elements in the cow milk is important in the agricultural sector. The goal of this study was to determine the concentrations of calcium (Ca), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in the milk samples coming from different origins (local region in Nitra, nationwide sample represents the common Slovak brands of milk and common brands of milk from Czech Republic widely available in Slovakia). The samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrometry. A high level of variability in the Cu, Fe, Na, Ni, and Zn contents was observed. Magnesium was comparatively high in the milk sample from Slovakia (273.23 ± 16.32 µg/mL) against sample from Nitra (230.91 ± 9.48 µg/mL) and Czech Republic (202.70 ± 10.83 µg/mL). Potassium was significantly higher in milk from Nitra region (3301.98 ± 95.66) against SK sample (2925.16 ± 75.74 µg/mL). There were no significant differences in other elements among the three regions. The provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) contribution suggested low dietary exposure to observed toxic metals (Cd, Hg, and Pb) in milk samples. Margin of exposure (MOE) evaluation denoted that even higher consumption of milk poses no high cardiovascular and nephrotoxicity threat. However, Cd and Pb are known for their cumulative effect and the monitoring of these elements in milk is strongly required.

Biogenic and Risk Elements in Wines from the Slovak Market with the Estimation of Consumer Exposure.

Wine consumption delivers macroelements and microelements necessary for the proper metabolism. On the other hand, wine can be an important source of toxic metals. The aim of this study was to estimate the concentrations of Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mg, Ni, Pb, and Zn in the Slovak and non-Slovak wines. The concentration of metals was evaluated with respect to the type, the alcohol content, and the age of Slovak wine. The general scheme of concentrations found was as follows Ca > Mg > Fe > Zn > Pb > Cd > Ni > Cu > Hg. The type of wine and the alcohol content do not have a significant impact on metal concentrations. Also, the age of wine has no influence on the mean concentration of metals, except for Zn. Metal concentrations in Slovak and non-Slovak wines indicate similar contents of metals, except for Ni. The contribution to both dietary reference values (DRVs) and provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) evaluations in the Slovak wine suggested low dietary exposure to Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Ni, Zn, Cd, Hg, and Pb, respectively. However, we do not suggest that the consumption of all Slovak wines is healthy. The maximum Pb concentrations in Slovak wines exceed the maximum permitted level proposed by the European Commission. This might be proved by the results of the margin of the exposure (MOE) value evaluation in the samples containing the maximum Pb concentrations, showing a high risk of CKD and SBP in high and extreme consumption groups.

Detection of selected trace elements in yogurt components.

The objective of this study was to determine the concentrations of Cu, Cd, Pb, Mn, Cr, Co, Ni, Zn, and Hg in the white and fruit parts of commercially available yogurts (n = 30) from Nitra markets (Slovak Republic). The results were correlated to determine their relationships. Three yogurt fruit flavors were chosen and tested, strawberry (n = 10), blueberry (n = 10), and cherry (n = 10). The elements were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Higher concentrations of toxic elements, such as Cd and Pb, were found in the fruit parts of the yogurt, and in some cases, the tolerable limit was exceeded. The white part of the yogurt was not contaminated by toxic elements. White yogurt is a good source of nutrients for humans, but the fruit part in yogurt requires detailed monitoring and improvements in the processing techniques.

Relationship between air pollution and metal levels in cancerous and non-cancerous lung tissues.

We aimed to check the relationships between levels of metals (Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg and Zn) in cancerous and non-cancerous lung tissues and their link to air pollution, expressed as particulate matter (PM) concentrations. The study also examines the influence on metal concentration in the lung tissue of patients' sex and the distance of their homes from the nearest emitter. We found that the general pattern of ascending concentrations in tumor tissue was as follows: Hg < Cd < Cu < Ca < Zn < Fe. In non-affected lung tissue the order of concentrations of Ca and Fe was reversed. With the exception of Cd and Cu, levels of metals were found in higher accumulations in non-cancerous tissue (e.g., Fe 326.423 and Ca 302.730 µg/g d.w) than in tumorous tissue (Fe 150.735 and Ca 15.025 µg/g d.w). Neither the PM10 (PM of a diameter of 10 µm) concentration nor sex revealed any connection with metal concentrations. The shorter the distance from the emitter, the higher the metal concentrations that tended to be observed for almost all metals, but a statistically significant (but weak) relationship was noted only for Cu in tumor tissue (rs: -0.4869).

Levels of metals in kidney, liver and muscle tissue and their relation to the occurrence of parasites in the red fox in the Lower Silesian Forest in Europe.

Together with the occurrence of parasites, increased concentrations of xenobiotics, to which scavengers are greatly exposed, may significantly influence the physiology of red foxes. It is also suspected that these two factors interact. The accumulation of various metals (Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mg, Ni, Pb, Zn) in kidney, liver and muscle tissue was investigated, as well as the occurrence of parasites, and the potential link to the presence of metals. Generally speaking, neither sex nor age influenced these concentrations. K, Mg and Fe were found in the highest concentrations and Hg was found in the lowest. Various relationships between the concentrations of metals were observed in the tissues. 34% of the specimens studied were hosts to parasites. No clear, significant connection between the concentrations and the occurrence of parasites was noted, but the discernible trend confirmed by the logistic regression, needs further study.

Further investigation of risk elements content in the bones of wild rodents from a polluted area in Slovakia.

BACKGROUND: Wild rodents are suitable for monitoring environmental pollution and exposure risk assessment for people living in contaminated areas. The content of selected risk elements in the femora of bank vole (Myodes glareolus), yellow-necked mouse (Apodemus flavicollis) and wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) was estimated from the Kolínany area of Slovakia, which is characterized by a high degree of environmental pollution. The rodents were trapped in February 2011 using standard theriological methods. All animals (n = 32) were adult males in good physical condition. The concentrations of Fe, Cu, Zn and Ni in their bones were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. RESULTS: The highest concentrations of Fe and Cu were detected in the bones of yellow-necked mouse. Significant differences were observed for the content of Fe between A. flavicollis and M. glareolus (P < 0.05). The highest levels of Zn and Ni were found in the femora of wood mouse; however, significant differences were not detected between the rodents. Moreover, the concentrations of Cu, Zn and Ni were significantly higher in the bones of all three species (P < 0.05) in comparison with the values obtained in the same animal species at the same site in February 2007. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate an increased accumulation of Cu, Zn and Ni in the femora of M. glareolus, A. flavicollis and A. sylvaticus from the Kolínany area and thus indicate towards ongoing contamination of this locality.

Cadmium, lead and mercury concentrations and their influence on morphological parameters in blood donors from different age groups from southern Poland.

Due to industrial development, environmental contamination with metals increases which leads to higher human exposure via air, water and food. In order to evaluate the level of the present exposition, the concentrations of metals can be measured in such biological materials as human blood. In this study, we assessed the concentrations of cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in blood samples from male blood donors from southern Poland (Europe) born in 1994 (n=30) and between 1947 and 1955 (n=30). Higher levels of Pb were seen in the group of older men (4.48 vs 2.48µg/L), whereas the Hg levels were lower (1.78 vs 4.28µg/L). Cd concentrations did not differ between age groups (0.56µg/L). The levels of Cd and Pb in older donors were significantly correlated (Spearman R 0.5135). We also observed a positive correlation between the number of red blood cells (RBC) and Hg concentrations in the older group (Spearman R 0.4271). Additionally, we noted numerous correlations among morphological parameters. Based on our results, we can state that metals influence the blood morphology and their concentrations in blood vary among age groups.

Accumulation of metals in cancerous and healthy tissues of patients with lung cancer in Southern Poland.

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the concentrations of metals differ among patients with and without lung cancer with different smoking status and living in industrialized environments. We also evaluated the relationships between metals and blood parameters including hematocrit level (Hct), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), red (RBC) and white (WBC) blood cells numbers. Concentrations of metals were measured with AAS (copper - Cu, iron - Fe, magnesium - Mg, zinc - Zn) and CV-AAS (mercury - Hg). Neither smoking status nor industrialization could be considered as a significant factor for metals accumulation in blood, lungs and tumor tissues, with the exception of mercury which differed in the aspect of industrialization. According to the type of the disease, Fe, Hg and Mg concentrations differed significantly in lungs. Correlations between metals and blood parameters were observed. Additionally, concentrations of Mg, Cu and Zn were correlated between lungs and tumor tissue of patients with cancer as well as they all were related to each other in lungs, tumor and blood tissues.

Blood concentration of copper, cadmium, zinc and lead in horses and its relation to hematological and biochemical parameters.

Environmental pollution results in serious health hazards to animals and blood analysis serves as a good alternative for health status assessment. The target of this study was to analyze the concentration of selected metals in equine blood, to analyze the blood parameters and to find possible correlations. Blood samples were collected from the vena jugularis of healthy adult horses. The highest concentration of all elements was found in whole blood (Cu 3.84 ± 0.90 mg L(-1); Cd = 0.81 ± 0.90 mg L(-1); Zn 26.67 ± 14.12 mg L(-1); Pb 9.33 ± 5.76 mg L(-1)). Higher concentrations of copper, cadmium, zinc and lead were detected in blood clots compared to blood sera (44.04%). A similar tendency was found for cadmium (50%), zinc (13.08%) and lead (46.02%), which showed generally higher concentrations in blood clots (cells). Correlation analysis proved some relations between analyzed elements. In blood clots there is a strong positive correlation between Cd - Pb (r = 0.93) and Zn - Pb (r = 0.71) was detected. For biochemical and hematological parameters mainly medium correlations were detected. Obtained results prove different correlations of analyzed elements in blood components as well as the effect on parameters of blood biochemical and hematological profiles.

[Effects of the cigarette smoking on the newborn clinical parametrs and the accumulation of cadmium and lead in the placenta of women from Upper Silesia]. / Wplyw palenia papierosów na parametry noworodka oraz na kumulacje kadmu i olowiu w lozysku kobiet z Górnego Slaska.

AIM: The aim of the study was to determine the content of cadmium and lead in different parts of the placenta and fetal membranes of women who were exposed to cigarette smoke. The correlation between the two chemical elements and the impact of the Cd and Pb accumulation on newborn parameters were established. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study material was collected immediately after delivery from 40 patients of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Katowice. The marginal and central parts of the placenta and fetal membranes (amnion) were taken. The women were divided into two groups: smokers and non-smokers. Metal concentration in placenta was determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Bioethical Commission approved of the study RESULTS: In both studied groups, smokers and non-smokers, the presence of cadmium and lead was detected. Smokers turned out to have accumulated more of the investigated heavy metals in the placenta and fetal membranes. In the analyzed groups of women of smokers and non-smokers, differences in the content of the studied metals were found, but they were not statistically significant. Differences in newborn parameters in the two groups of women occurred, but again they lacked statistical significance. The level of lead increases along with the increase in the amount of cadmium, which proves the existence of a statistically significant correlation between them (p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS: The number of smoked cigarettes increases cadmium content in maternal placenta and fetal membranes. No significant differences in newborn parameters of either smoker or non-smokers were observed, which may indicate women's adaptation to the environment containing cigarette smoke. The placenta and fetal membranes are biomarkers of the level of toxic exposure for the developing baby.

Mercury concentrations in human placenta, umbilical cord, cord blood and amniotic fluid and their relations with body parameters of newborns.

Studies were conducted on samples taken from giving birth women (n = 40) living in Poland, representing three age groups: 19-25, 26-30 and 31-38 years old. Mercury concentrations were measured with CV-AAS in placenta, umbilical cord, cord blood and amniotic fluid. The placentas weight did not exceed the 750 g value and was heavier than 310 g. Mean values of Hg concentrations in blood, placenta and umbilical cord were similar (c.a. 9 µg/g). High levels of mercury were noted in cord blood which in 75% of all observations exceeded (up to 17 µg/L) the safe dose set by US EPA (5.8 µg/L). No statistically significant differences in medium level of Hg in all the studied tissues among age groups of women were observed. Positive correlations between Hg concentrations in placenta and umbilical cord and cord blood were revealed as well as some negative ones between mercury concentrations and pregnancy parameters.

Structural changes in femoral bone tissue of rats after subchronic peroral exposure to selenium.

BACKGROUND: The role of selenium (Se) on bone microarchitecture is still poorly understood. The present study aims to investigate the macroscopic and microscopic structures of femoral bone tissue in adult male rats after subchronic peroral administration of Se. METHODS: Twenty one-month-old male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups. In the first group (Se group) young males were exposed to 5 mg Na(2)SeO(3)/L in drinking water, for 90 days. Ten one-month-old males without Se administration served as a control group. At the end of the experiment, macroscopic and microscopic structures of the femurs were analysed using analytical scales, sliding instrument, and polarized light microscopy. RESULTS: The body weight, femoral length and cortical bone thickness were significantly decreased in Se group rats. These rats also displayed different microstructure in the middle part of the femur, both in medial and lateral views, where vascular canals expanded into the central area of the bone while, in control rats, these canals occurred only near the endosteal surfaces. Additionally, a smaller number of primary and secondary osteons was identified in Se group rats. Histomorphometric analyses revealed significant increases for area, perimeter, maximum and minimum diameters of primary osteons' vascular canals but significant reductions for all measured variables of Haversian canals and secondary osteons. CONCLUSIONS: Se negatively affected the macroscopic and microscopic structures of femoral bone tissue in adult male rats. The results contribute to the knowledge on damaging impact of Se on bone.

Concentrations of cadmium, copper and zinc in tissues of mallard and coot from southern Poland.

The aim of this study was to present the content of cadmium, copper and zinc in tissues of the most common game waterbirds from southern Poland. Concentrations of the three metals were measured in brain, pectoral muscle, heart muscle, liver and kidney of mallard (n = 10) and coot (n = 10) shot in 2003 on fishponds around Zator, Southern Poland. The lowest concentrations were noted in the case of cadmium. Its highest median occurred in kidney (mallard 8.4251 µg/g d.w., coot 5.0704 µg/g d.w.). Average concentrations of this element in muscles oscillated in both species around 0.94 µg/g d.w. In the comparison of cadmium concentrations to the safety norms for consumable meat, almost all samples were non-fit for human consumption. Copper concentrations showed a significant variation between species but their range in different tissues was generally narrow. The highest median was noted among mallards in liver (39.4863 µg/g d.w.) and among coots in pectoral muscle (40.2684 µg/g d.w.). Zinc concentrations did not differ statistically between species only in the case of liver and kidney. Median of this element hit to 98.4883 µg/g d.w. (liver of mallard) and 107.6153 µg/g d.w. (heart muscle of coot). No statistically significant correlations between concentrations of studied metals in different samples were noted. Concentrations of study elements were also evaluated in environmental samples. Water contained trace amounts of researched elements (medians from 0.0401 for Cd to 0.1251 mg/L for Cu). In deposit and forage samples, zinc occurred in the highest concentration (median up to 56.7701 µg/g d.w.).