Fish Consumption Research Articles

Evidence of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and alternative halogenated flame retardants (AHFRs) in wild fish species from the remote tropical marine environment, South China Sea

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and their alternatives (e.g., dechlorane plus (DPs) and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE)) are ubiquitous in various environmental media. However, limited data is available on these chemicals in edible fish species from the wide-open South China Sea (SCS). In the present study, ten legacy PBDEs and three substitutions (DBDPE and two DPs) were analyzed in 16 wild fish species sampled from the open SCS to investigate their spatial and species-specific variations. The results showed that the total concentrations of PBDEs, DBDPE, and DPs in fish samples were in the range of 1.69 to 47.6, not detected (nd) to 21.0, and nd to 3.80 ng/g lipid weight (lw), respectively. BDEs 47, 209 and 100 were the dominant target PBDE congeners, representing 49.2%, 17.2% and 9.93% of the total PBDE concentrations, respectively. Higher concentrations of PBDEs, DBDPE, and DPs were found in fish species from the Wanshan Archipelago compared to those from the Mischief Reef and the Yongxing Island, suggesting the significant influence of anthropogenic activities. Species-specific differences in levels of PBDEs were observed, with the order of bathydemersal > demersal > pelagic ≈ reef-associated > benthopelagic species. The average fanti value of all fish samples was 0.68, suggesting commercial DP products as a contamination source. The levels of PBDEs, DPs, and DBDPE in fish samples were relatively low compared with those from other locations around the globe. Finally, the health risks concerning the ingestion of BDEs 47, 99, 153 and 209 via fish consumption collected from the SCS are negligible.

Unveiling mercury exposure sources in e-waste recycling with biomonitoring - A Portuguese case study

Abstract Background Mercury (Hg), a global pollutant, poses risks to both human and environmental health. The management and recycling of electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) is recognized as having the potential to promote workers’ exposure to this pollutant. Human biomonitoring (HBM) is a tool that can be used to evaluate exposure and monitor the health of workers. The objective of this study was to characterize exposure of workers from an e-waste recycling company and to analyze the relevance that HBM holds in the detailed characterization of exposure. Methods A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using data collected within the framework of the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative (HBM4EU). Data from environmental monitoring (settled dust) and biological monitoring (urine and hair) of 30 workers potentially exposed to Hg were analyzed in comparison with 12 unexposed workers from other occupational settings (controls). Results Exposed workers did not exhibit significantly higher concentrations of Hg in urine when compared to control workers. We found a significantly positive correlation between the concentration of Hg in urine (ρ = 0.688; p ≤ 0.001) and hair (ρ = 0.470; p ≤ 0.01) and the consumption of fish and shellfish. Conclusions Diet appears to be the most significant source of Hg in this context. These results suggest the importance of information and dietary habits to prevent mercury exposure. HBM stands out as an essential tool for identifying the most relevant exposure sources and risk management measures for workers and the general population. Key messages • Diet appears to be the most significant Hg source in workers from a Portuguese e-waste company. • HBM stands out as essential for identifying the most relevant exposure sources and risk management.

Compliance of eating model of individuals with metabolic syndrome with Bulgarian dietary guidelines

Abstract Background The incidence of metabolic syndrome progressively increases among the urban population of Europe. About 1/3 of the Bulgarian adults have metabolic syndrome. Changing the dietary pattern can be a modern approach to control it. The aim of the study is to investigate the eating model of people with metabolic syndrome according to the Bulgarian dietary guidelines. Methods Two hundred individuals with metabolic syndrome aged 54.6±10.5 y. were randomly selected from general practitioners’ practices in Pleven region, Bulgaria. A Food Frequency Questionnaire method was applied to assess the eating pattern of the respondents. The frequency of food consumption of different foods was compared with the dietary guidelines for the Bulgarian population over 18 years of age. Data were processed with IBM SPSS v. 25. Results Grain consumption met the recommendations in almost all respondents. Only 29% consumed fresh fruits and 42% had intake of milk and milk products according to the requirements. Women ate more fresh vegetables and fruits and dairy products than men (p = 0,032). Risk meat consumption, 2-4 times a week, was found: men preferring more red meat (45%) and women - chicken and poultry (56%). Fish consumption met recommendation (once a week) in only 14.7% of the respondents. The food intake of eggs, vegetables, legumes and nuts were low. The preferred oils were sunflower and olive (once a day by 86% and 15% respectively), and butter (21% - 2-4 times a week). The intake of table salt corresponds to the recommendations in two thirds of the participants. One third consumed confectionery every day. Half did not drink alcohol, but 16% used concentrates once a day. Conclusions Foods that increase the nutritional risk for the development of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes - high consumption of confectionery and red meat, low consumption of vegetables, fish and legumes were found. Unbalanced eating model requires new public initiatives to prevent metabolic syndrome. Key messages • Men with metabolic syndrome have a higher consumption of unhealthy foods than women. • Modern Bulgarian dietary guidelines are an important tool for prevention of metabolic syndrome.

Detection of Illicit Conservation Treatments in Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax): Application and Data Integration of NIR Spectrometers

Global fish and seafood consumption is increasing annually, frequently leading to the emergence of food fraud, mainly related to mislabeling and adulteration like, for example, the use of illicit/unauthorized food additives to mask or delay fish spoilage. Among the available diagnostic tools for control purposes, spectroscopic techniques have often been proposed to identify these kinds of illicit practices in fish and seafood products. The presented study aims to test two cheap and portable near infrared (NIR) spectrometers, a handheld MicroNIR and a pocket-sized SCiO, to uncover use of the illicit food additive Cafodos, a mixture of sodium citrate and hydrogen peroxide used to preserve some fish characteristics (like smell, color, na dtexture). The NIR spectroscopy in combination with chemometric approaches, allowed the successfully classification of (81–100%) samples of sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) treated with Cafodos. The study highlights the potential of this technique that, by not requiring pre-treatment of samples with further reagents, is cheaper and safer for the environment. In conclusion, the study confirmed the potential of portable devices for rapid NIR spectroscopy analysis to identify food fraud and ensure consumer safety.

Assessing microplastic abundances in freshwater fishes in a subtropical African reservoir

Microplastics are emerging pollutants of global concern, and their presence in the aquatic environment poses a serious risk for aquatic biota. While many studies have been conducted on the presence of microplastics in marine habitats, little research has been done in freshwater African reservoirs on microplastic pollution and their impacts on fish within the subtropical regions. To bridge this gap, the current study investigated microplastic abundances and distribution in freshwater fish within Nandoni reservoir, South Africa, across two seasons (i.e., hot–wet, cool–dry). Fish were randomly sampled using seine and gill nets from seven sites within the reservoir. In the laboratory, fish were then sorted according to taxa before dissecting them to remove the gills and the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The organs were digested using hot hydrochloric acid and hydrogen peroxide, and the microplastics were classified according to their colours and shapes. Among the 94 fishes (i.e., 8 species) examined, microplastics were detected in 86.6% of the eight species caught. Microplastics were dominant in the gills and GIT during the cool–dry and hot–wet seasons, respectively. High microplastic abundances were found in the gills of Micropterus salmoides and the GIT of Coptodon rendalli, where fibres and the transparent colour were the most dominant. The results further showed high microplastic abundances in benthopelagic feeders highlighting that habitat influences fish consumption of microplastics whether directly or indirectly. Significant differences were observed in the feeding zone and season for all microplastic types. Microplastic sources in the reservoirs could be due to anthropogenic activities such as illegal dumping, fishing, and agriculture. Thus, there is a need for further investigation into the relation of fish weight, fish sex and body in relation to microplastic pollution. The highlighted ecological factors should be taken into consideration for future research and management actions aimed at mitigating and protecting the negative impacts of microplastic pollution on environmental and human health.

Dynamics of the total mercury content in the hair of adolescent residents of the industrial center of Northwest Russia (Cherepovets City).

Total mercury content dynamics were evaluated in the hair of adolescent residents of the industrial center of North West Russia. The content of total mercury varied from less than 0.002 to 0.83mg/kg. The content of total mercury in the hair of males was 1.5-2 times lower than that of females. The relationship between the body mass index of females and the content of total mercury in the hair (for the entire observation period rs = 0.28-0.48, at p < 0.05) was observed. Metal's concentration in the hair of the study participants was found to depend on of fish consumption frequency. Total mercury concentration values were found to increase of 70% of the participants, by 0.03mg/kg per year on average, over 3years of study. Indicators of the content of total mercury in the hair of females and males in the city of Cherepovets did not exceed the standard values established in Russia and in the world. At the same time, the recorded values of the annual increase in the content of total mercury in the hair allow us to predict the potentially hazardous levels of metal in the body of the study participants when they reach adulthood.

Association Between Consumption of Foods Containing Vitamin D and All-Cause Mortality in Korea.

Sufficient vitamin D levels are reported to be a factor in reducing various chronic diseases and resulting mortality rates. Well-dried mushrooms and blue-backed fish are known to be rich in vitamin D. In this study, the association between mortality rates and the intake of vitamin D-rich foods was confirmed using data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiological Study (KoGES). Among the KoGES database, we followed up a total of 6844 adults who participated in the Ansung-Ansan cohort study recruited from 2001 to 2002 and continued for an average of 16.7 years until 2018. The main findings were analyzed using Cox regression analysis. During follow-up, 439 cases of all-cause mortality, 149 cases of cancer-related mortality, and 91 cases of cardiovascular mortality were confirmed. In the fully adjusted model, the hazard ratio (HR) for all-cause mortality in quartile 3 of mushroom consumption was 0.709 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.525-0.958) compared with quartile 1. In addition, the HRs for cardiovascular mortality in quartile 3 of mushroom consumption were 0.348 (95% CI, 0.154-0.787) compared with those in quartile 1. The HRs of cardiovascular mortality for quartiles 3 and 4 of fish consumption were 0.442 (95% CI, 0.226-0.865) and 0.533 (95% CI, 0.285-0.998), respectively, compared with quartile 1. In conclusion, moderate consumption of mushrooms was related to decreased risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, while heightened fish consumption was inversely related to cardiovascular mortality.

Spatiotemporal variation in fish mercury contamination: Comparing approaches for crafting consumption advisories and assessing impairment

Mercury in fish is a serious human health concern. Mercury is a widespread contaminant that exceeds health effect thresholds in many fish species and waterbodies. The objectives were to determine the spatiotemporal variation of mercury in fish tissue for several fish species across thousands of lakes and to assess the potential use of fish length standardization and statistical models to improve fish consumption guidelines and impairments determinations in lake-rich areas. The results showed that fish length, species, ecoregion, lake size, latitude, color dissolved organic matter, water clarity, and zebra mussel presence influenced mercury concentrations. Fish mercury concentrations were generally higher from 1967 to 1990, and since 1990 there was no obvious trend. We found that a statistical model provided estimates of mean mercury concentrations by fish total length that were unbiased and with greater confidence than those based solely on sample statistics. The use of fish length standardization and inclusion of predictive models could improve precision and consistency of fish consumption guidelines and impairments determinations.

Low-salt diets and salt-free cooking help reduce exposure to Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

BackgroundThe ubiquity of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various consumer and industrial products poses a significant public health challenge, but effective strategies to reduce human exposure to PFAS are limited. ObjectivesThis study aims to evaluate the association between dietary patterns, specifically low-salt diets and salt-free cooking, and serum PFAS levels in the general population. MethodsThe study analyzed data from 11,137 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) using weighted linear regression. We assessed associations between low-salt or low-sodium dietary patterns and the way salt was used during cooking or food preparation and serum levels of five highly detectable PFAS compounds: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA). Since consuming fish and shellfish is a major source of PFAS exposure in humans, the intake status of these foods was adjusted for in the sensitivity analysis. Additionally, other sensitivity analyses, including propensity score matching, were conducted. ResultsThe analyses showed a significant negative association between low-salt or low-sodium diet and serum levels of the five PFAS compounds. In contrast, regular use of salt in cooking or food preparation was significantly and positively associated with higher serum levels of PFAS. These findings were consistent across all models. Also consistent were the results of sensitivity analyses based on participants' consumption of fish and shellfish and propensity score matching. ConclusionsLow-salt or low-sodium dietary patterns, and salt-free cooking may be are associated with a reduced risk of PFAS exposure in the general population. While this study offers new insights into mitigating PFAS exposure, further validation in additional datasets is necessary, along with confirmation through intervention studies designed based on this hypothesis.

Dietary Guidelines for Pregnant and Lactating Women, Adherence Levels, and Associated Factors: a Scoping Review.

This scoping review addresses gaps in the existing literature on dietary guidelines for pregnant and lactating women globally. The study delves into adherence levels, identifies influencing factors, and examines outcomes associated with these guidelines. Analysing food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) from around the world, the review reveals that half of the countries lack FBDGs, with only 15% providing tailored advice for pregnant and lactating women. Utilising data extracted from 47 articles across MEDLINE and EMBASE, the study highlights a scarcity of adherence studies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and emphasises the lack of research during lactation. Overall adherence to dietary guidelines is low, with disparities in fruit, vegetable, whole grain, and fish consumption. Positive correlations with adherence include age, education, employment, social class, and certain medical histories, while negative correlations involve smoking, alcohol consumption, metropolitan residence, and elevated BMI. The study documented significant associations between adherence and reduced risks of gestational complications but calls for further exploration of intermediate nutritional outcomes like micronutrient deficiencies and child growth. Emphasising the urgency for globally standardised guidelines, especially in LMICs, this review provides a foundational call for prioritised studies and strategies to enhance dietary practices for pregnant and lactating women worldwide.

Interdisciplinary Brain-based Learning Strategies in Addressing Liver Fluke Disease and Cultural Dietary Practices among Early Childhood Students

Liver fluke disease remains a critical public health issue in Southeast Asia, driven by cultural dietary practices involving raw or undercooked freshwater fish. This study evaluates the impact of an interdisciplinary brain-based learning intervention aimed at increasing awareness and modifying dietary behaviors among early childhood students in Central Northeast Thailand. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 122 students from four provinces. The intervention incorporated brain-based learning activities such as storytelling, songs, and visual aids to enhance engagement. Pre- and post-tests, behavioral observations, and attitudinal surveys were conducted to assess the program’s effectiveness. Post-intervention results indicated significant improvements in knowledge about liver fluke transmission, symptoms, and prevention, alongside positive changes in behavior, such as increased avoidance of raw fish consumption and improved hygiene practices. Attitudinal surveys showed a shift in preferences toward safer eating habits. These findings suggest integrating brain-based learning with culturally relevant health education can foster sustainable behavior change in early childhood populations. Further research is recommended to explore this approach’s long-term impacts and scalability.

Amphimeriasis in Ecuador-Prevalence, Knowledge, and Socio-Cultural Practices Among Indigenous Chachi and Montubios Populations: A Mixed-Methods Cross-Sectional Study.

Amphimerus, a liver fluke, is the causative agent of amphimeriasis, a foodborne disease acquired thought the consumption of infected raw or undercooked river fish-a practice embedded in traditional culinary customs. Amphimeriasis represents a significant public health issue and has been endemic in Ecuador since 2011, particularly among the Chachi Amerindians and Montubios populations residing in tropical ecoregions. By employing a mixed-methods research design, we conducted a community-based, cross-sectional study. A survey comprising of 63 questions on KAP was administrated in person to community members, health personnel, and academic staff in the two populations. Additionally, 67 semi-structured interviews were performed. Microscopy was achieved on 273 human and 80 dog fecal samples to detect Amphimerus eggs. A total of 86 questionnaires (54 Chachi) and 67 interviews (44 Chachi), out of 300 residents, were completed. Among the respondents, 31.4% were aware of Amphimerus, locally referred to as "liver worm". Although 79.1% reported not consuming raw fish, most admitted eating raw fish with lime juice and salt, a preparation known as "curtido", and 59.3% reported consuming smoked fish. Here, 86.1% of participants considered "liver worm" a serious disease, and 55.8% recognized raw or marinated fish as a potential transmission route. The Chachi showed a preference for smoked fish, whereas the Montubios favoured "curtido". The prevalence of Amphimerus infection was 23% in humans and 16.2% in dogs. Differences in KAP were observed between infected and non-infected individuals. Local health and academic personnel demonstrated insufficient knowledge about amphimeriasis. Some religious individuals refrained from participating, stating that they were "with God". Despite the high prevalence of Amphimerus infection in both humans and dogs, knowledge about the parasite, the disease, and its transmission routes remains limited. Health education initiatives should be designed to modify the population's KAP. It is crucial for national and local health authorities, as well as religious leaders, to be informed and actively involved in the prevention and control of amphimeriasis.

Consequences of terrestrial top predator control by Patagonian sheep farmers for coastal marine food webs

Most seabird species avoid predation by locating their breeding colonies in predator-free islands, inaccessible cliffs, capes, or on the mainland in Antarctica, the only continent without terrestrial predators. Departing from this general rule, a significant number of large Magellanic penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) colonies exist nowadays in South American Atlantic mainland shores spanning a wide latitudinal range. Based on published radiocarbon dating of colonies, along with historical and archaeological records, we postulate that the current distribution of these colonies may be a response to predator eradication by sheep farmers. This would have made breeding habitats near marine food resources accessible and may have also reduced competition with neighboring colonies. We employed stable isotope analysis to estimate the penguin contribution to the diet of four pumas responsible for killing thousands of penguins in a breeding colony located within a coastal national park. Furthermore, we used a bioenergetic model to quantify the consumption of forage fish under different population distribution and abundance scenarios. We briefly discuss the implications of our results in the context of conservation policies aimed at establishing ecosystem baselines along the Patagonian shores.

The contribution of fish to the diet of loggerhead sea turtles in the western Mediterranean revisited

Early juvenile loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) rely on gelatinous zooplankton, whereas individuals larger than 40 cm curved carapace length are adapted to crush hard-shelled invertebrates. Nevertheless, fish were reported to be the staple food of loggerhead turtles in the western Mediterranean 30 years ago. Here, the temporal consistency of such a fish-based diet of loggerhead turtles is assessed through gut content analysis and stable isotope analysis of samples from the Mediterranean coast of Spain spanning three decades. The gut contents of 134 juvenile loggerhead turtles (curved carapace length range: 27–71 cm) from three different periods (1991, 1999–2008 and 2010–2017) were analyzed, as well as a subsample of the same turtles (n = 10 in each period) for both bulk and compound-specific stable isotope ratios (CSIA-AA). Gut content analysis revealed a decline in the frequency of occurrence and numerical abundance of fish and an increasing contribution of gastropods and bivalves throughout time, although pelagic tunicates were always the most frequently observed prey. The δ15Nbulk of turtle bone also dropped throughout the study period, but the values of the stable isotope ratio of N in phenylalanine (δ15NPhe) indicated that 52.5% of that variability was due to a baseline shift over time. Accordingly, the trophic position estimated from CSIA-AA did not follow the decreasing pattern of δ15Nbulk, but fluctuated throughout time. The overall evidence indicates that fish consumption by loggerhead turtles in the study region declined through time, but the trophic position of loggerhead turtles did not change simultaneously. This is probably because low trophic prey such pelagic tunicates and filter-feeding bivalves and suspension-feeding gastropods were the bulk of the diet during the whole study period and fish played a minor role, even when their frequency of occurrence peaked. Past levels of high fish consumption might be due to high levels of fishery discards, currently declining because of the recent reduction of the fishing fleet.

Association of fish intake with all-cause mortality according to CRP levels or inflammation in older adults: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundThe relationship between inflammatory response, fish consumption, and mortality risk in older individuals is unclear. We investigated whether C-reactive protein (CRP) levels ≥ 0.1 mg/dL, fish intake, and inflammatory responses are associated with all-cause mortality risk in older adults.MethodsThis prospective cohort study included older adults aged 85–89 years from the Kawasaki Aging and Wellbeing Project, who did not require daily care. Cohort was recruited from March 2017 to December 2018 (follow-up ended on December 31, 2021). Dietary assessment was conducted using the Brief Self-Administered Diet History Questionnaire. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for all-cause mortality in the CRP ≥ 0.1 mg/dL group; the CRP < 0.1 mg/dL group was used for reference. Within CRP ≥ 0.1 and < 0.1 mg/dL groups, participants were categorized into tertiles of fish intake. HRs and 95% CIs for all-cause mortality in the other groups were estimated using the lower tertile group as a reference.ResultsThe study included 996 participants (mean [standard deviation] age, 86.5 [1.37] years; 497 [49.9%] women) with a median CRP level of 0.08 (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.04–0.16). There were 162 deaths during 4,161 person-years of observation; the multivariable-adjusted HR for all-cause mortality in the CRP ≥ 0.1 mg/dL group was 1.86 (95% CI, 1.32–2.62); P < 0.001. In 577 individuals with median (IQR) fish intake of 39.3 g/1000 kcal (23.6–57.6) and CRP level of < 0.1 mg/dL, the multivariable-adjusted HR for all-cause mortality in the higher tertile group of fish intake was 1.15 (0.67–1.97); P = 0.59, non-linear P = 0.84. In 419 individuals with median (IQR) fish intake of 40.7 g/1000 kcal (25.0–60.1) and CRP level of ≥ 0.1 mg/dL, the multivariate-adjusted HR for all-cause mortality in the higher tertile group of fish intake was 0.49 (0.26–0.92); P = 0.026, non-linear P = 0.38, P-value for interaction = 0.040.ConclusionsA negative association between fish intake and all-cause mortality was seen in older adults with elevated CRP levels, which is a mortality risk factor. While the results may be limited owing to stringent methods ensuring impartiality, they offer valuable insights for future research.Trial registrationUMIN000026053. Registered February 24, 2017.

Microplastic and associated emerging contaminants in marine fish from the South China Sea: Exposure and human risks

Microplastics can act as vectors of chemical contaminants in aquatic environments, but the extent to which this phenomenon contributes to chemical exposure in marine organisms remains poorly understood. We investigated the occurrence of microplastics and emerging contaminants (ECs), including antibiotics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in 14 marine fish species. Microplastics were detected in all marine fish species, mainly in the gastrointestinal tract. Fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines were the dominant antibiotics in fish muscles with maximum concentrations of 24.84 and 26.95 ng g−1 ww, while perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS, 0.039–0.95 ng g−1 ww) was the dominant component in the PFAS profile. Fish with more microplastics had significantly higher concentrations of fluoroquinolones and perfluoroalkyl acids than fish with less microplastics (p < 0.05), but the correlation was not observed in other chemicals. Structural equation modeling revealed the contribution of microplastics in fish on the level of ECs contamination. The health quotient value indicated the low health risk of single compounds via fish consumption to humans; however, the combined risk of microplastics and ECs still needs to be considered. This work highlights the link between microplastics with associated ECs ingested by aquatic organisms and the human health risk of consuming polluted seafood.

Исследование факторов, определяющих динамику и качество прогнозирования потребительских цен на рыбную продукцию

Using information of the Territorial body of the Federal State Statistics Service for the Primorsky Territory (Primorskstat), the dynamics of consumer price indices for fishery products in the country as a whole, the Far Eastern Federal District and the Primorsky Territory for 2002-2023, and the dynamics of prices by type of fish products in the Primorsky Territory for 2013-2023 were studied. It is concluded that the cost of fishery products has been steadily increasing throughout the analyzed period, and ahead of the inflation rate. The most intensive increase in the cost of processed fish, cut, more valuable in terms of nutritional characteristics. To determine the reasons for the constant growth, a correlation and regression analysis of the consumer price index for fishery products with other related indicators was carried out. Multicollinear factors were identified and excluded (consumer price index for food, per capita cash income of the population, fish consumption in the Primorsky Territory, industrial production index for the type of activity “Fishing and fish farming”). According to the criteria used in functional analysis, the multiple regression equation compiled using the remaining factors (inflation level and producer price index for fish products) was found to be untenable. As a result of excluding the factor “inflation level”, which had a less close connection with the performance indicator, a pair correlation model was obtained that describes the dependence of the consumer price index on the producer price index of fish products. The synthesized model is recognized as practically significant, and therefore can be used to obtain quantitative estimates of the consumer price index for fish products when forecasting.

The use of aquatic bioresources as a factor in ensuring Ukraine’s food security: legal aspects

The article is dedicated to the study of the legal aspects of using aquatic bioresources in Ukraine and the impact of their usage on ensuring the country’s food security. It is argued that the issue of proper legal regulation of the use of aquatic bioresources is becoming increasingly relevant today. Attention is given to both legislative and scientific approaches to the issue of legal regulation of Ukraine’s food security. The necessity of adopting a separate law titled «On the Fundamentals of Food Security of Ukraine» is emphasized. It is noted that the state’s food policy should aim for the highest degree of self-sufficiency, as the quality and quantity of consumed food products directly impact the nation’s health, life expectancy, work capacity, and intellectual potential. The article examines the legal grounds for the usage of aquatic bioresources. The impact of the fishing industry on ensuring Ukraine’s food security is analyzed, with the conclusion drawn that the country’s food security largely depends on the state of aquatic bioresource usage. The level of fish consumption and its processed products serves as an indicator of the population’s food security, which should be maintained at a level conducive to physiological needs. It is stressed that the development of the fishing industry is one of the most important tasks for ensuring the post-war recovery of the country. The article identifies aquatic bioresources as a strategic state food reserve in the current context. The artificial reproduction of valuable fish species is aimed at both supporting aquatic ecosystems and building industrial stocks. The author asserts that today, food security is a condition for maintaining the state’s sovereignty, supporting high levels of public health, and developing the country’s economy. Emphasis is placed on the fact that the use of aquatic bioresources is crucial for the country in terms of ensuring food security, improving economic conditions, saturating the domestic market with quality food products, increasing employment and welfare, as well as preserving biodiversity and effectively using water and hydrobiological resources.

Blood mercury concentrations in preschool children and potential risk factors in São Paulo, Brazil

Environmental exposure of preschool children to mercury can elevate blood mercury levels (BML) and negatively affect their health. This study aimed to determine BML in preschool children from Brazil's largest city and explore potential associated risk factors. Blood samples were collected in 2013 from 2436 children (age 1–5 years) attending 50 daycare centers (DCC) located in São Paulo, Brazil. Parents or guardians answered questionnaires collecting information on sociodemographics and potential risk factors. BML was determined by Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (CV-AAS) and categorized using a cutoff point of 2.77 μg L⁻1, corresponding to the 75th percentile. Multiple logistic regression was performed (p < 0.05). Data were georeferenced and associations with air pollution, wind frequency and direction were evaluated. The results showed a geometric mean for BML of 1.65 μg L⁻1 (95% CI: 1.60–1.70), arithmetic mean of 2.15 μg L⁻1 (95% CI: 2.09–2.22), 75th percentile of 2.77 μg L⁻1 (95% CI: 2.67–2.91) and 95th percentile of 5.51 μg L⁻1 (95% CI: 5.18–5.92). DCCs located in the Northwest and East zones (p < 0.001) and fish consumption in the past two days (p = 0.04) were associated with high BML. The elevated BML observed in children living in the eastern zone might be attributed to the southeasterly winds passing through a petrochemical complex located nearby. The 95th percentile of BML in this study exceeded the U.S. 95th percentile by five times. BML in São Paulo preschool children was associated with individual and environmental risk factors. This finding highlights the need to identify and control hot spots in São Paulo, Brazil, especially in peripheral and surrounding areas, where individuals are more vulnerable. Further research is needed in Latin America to identify additional sources of urban environmental mercury exposure and guide interventions for protecting the environment and safeguarding children's health.

Age, period, and cohort effects of Clonorchis sinensis infection prevalence in the Republic of Korea: Insights and projections.

With decades of containment efforts, the prevalence of C. sinensis infection in Korea has shown a declining trend. However, well-tailored intervention assessments remain challenging, particularly when considering the potential impacts of cohort variations in raw freshwater fish consumption behavior, a major transmission route to humans, on this observed decline. We applied an age-period-cohort modeling approach to nationally representative C. sinensis infection prevalence data from 1981-2012 in Korea to assess age, period, and cohort effects on its secular trend and to project the age-stratified prevalence up to 2023. Our analysis suggests that both cohort and period effects have substantially contributed to the declining prevalence of C. sinensis infection in Korea. Age-stratified projections up to 2023 suggest a decline in prevalence across all age groups, while those aged over 40 are anticipated to maintain prevalences above the elimination threshold of 1%. Our study highlights the importance of incorporating cohort effects into intervention assessments aimed at controlling C. sinensis infection. The effectiveness of interventions remains evident in Korea despite adjusting for the cohort effect. This approach, applicable to other endemic countries, would provide valuable insights for intervention assessments and inform future public health planning to eliminate C. sinensis infection.