Risk Of Poisoning Research Articles

A review of environmental and health effects of synthetic cosmetics

The use of cosmetic products is expanding globally, and with it, so is the range of chemical substances employed in their production. As a result, there is also a higher risk of intoxication, allergic reactions, prolonged chemical exposure, adverse effects, and indiscriminate use. Cosmetic products can contain more than 10,000 ingredients. Most users of synthetic cosmetics are unaware of the harmful effects if they even are. However, it is linked to many diseases like cancer, congenital disabilities, reproductive impairments, developmental systems, contact dermatitis, hair loss, lung damage, old age, skin diseases and reactions, allergies, and harm to human nails. Many beauty products also create a high demand for natural oils, leading to extensive and intensive cultivation, harming natural habitats through deforestation, and contaminating soil and water through pesticides and fertilizers. The adverse effects of hazardous substances in synthetic cosmetics extend beyond human health and influence ecosystems, air quality, and oceans. Thus, this review aims to assess the environmental and health impacts of cosmetics using published scientific articles. The study used a systematic review based on Scopus, Science Direct, Web databases, Scholar Google, and PubMed. The results of this review showed that the formulation of cosmetics until the disposal of their containers could adversely affect environmental and human health.

Acute Quetiapine Intoxication: Relationship Between Ingested Dose, Serum Concentration and Clinical Presentation-Structured Literature Review and Analysis.

Over the past decade, quetiapine has become one of the most commonly used psychotropic drugs in acute intoxication events worldwide. A structured literature review and analysis were conducted to assess the relationship between the kinetic and dynamic profiles in acute quetiapine intoxication. The correlation between dose and peak serum concentration (cmax) was determined using Pearson's correlation coefficient. Binary logistic regression was used to evaluate dose and cmax as predictors of the most common clinical events, signs and symptoms. One hundred and thirty-four cases of acute quetiapine ingestion were included in the analysis, with a median ingested dose of 10 g and a median cmax of 4 mg/L. The typical half-life was estimated to be 16.5 h, significantly longer than at therapeutic doses. For the immediate-release formulation, a biphasic disposition could not be excluded. Dose and cmax demonstrated a weak but significant correlation (r = 0.256; N = 63; p = 0.043). Central nervous system depression and tachycardia were the most common clinical signs. Higher doses and concentrations increased the risk of severe intoxication and were good predictors of intubation, tachycardia, hypotension, QTc prolongation and seizures, but not QRS prolongation, arrhythmia, heart block, hypokalaemia or acidosis. The thresholds for dose and cmax that increased the risk for individual signs and symptoms varied widely. However, doses > 3 g or cmax > 2 mg/L can be considered as alert levels that represent a high risk for severe clinical course of acute quetiapine intoxication.

Toxicological profile of Balanites agyptiaca in albino Wistar rats

Background: Balanites aegyptiaca (BAE) is a thorny tree that grows in most arid and semi-arid areas of Africa, the Middle East and India. It is used in traditional medicine for its cardioprotective, deworming, antihelmintic, anti-infectious and antifungal properties. Excessive consumption of this plant's products can present risks of intoxication for consumers. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the acute and subchronic oral toxicity of the aqueous extract of Balanites aegyptiaca leaves and roots, with a view to ensuring the safety of consumers of this plant. Method: Acute toxicity was carried out in accordance with the OECD experimental protocol. The plant extract tested was administered orally to female rats at a single dose of 2000 mg/kg. These animals were observed for 14 days. For the subchronic toxicity study, the aqueous extract was administered daily orally to male and female rats at different doses (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) for 30 days. After the treatment period, the animals were sacrificed for hematological, biochemical and histopathological analyses. Results: The results of the acute oral toxicity test showed that the aqueous extract of Balanites aegyptiaca leaves and roots was non-toxic at a dose of 2000 mg/kg. During the sub-chronic test period, observation of rat signs and behaviour revealed no abnormalities in the groups of animals treated with the extract compared with controls. A significant variation in relative heart and liver weights was observed at 1000 mg/kg. In addition, there was a significant reduction in concentrations of aspartate aminotransferase, total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins in these rats. Compared with control groups. There was also a significant decrease in hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin, with an increase in lymphocytes and white blood cells at the same dose of 1000mg/kg. Histological examinations of the kidneys and liver showed normal renal architecture, and the liver also showed normal hepatic architecture with slight degeneration at a dose of 1000mg/kg of the extract tested. Conclusion: Single administration of the 2000 mg/kg dose did not induce signs of significant toxicity in rats. However, in long-term oral treatment, safety measures must be taken. Thus, sub-chronic oral exposure of BAE to lower doses is recommended, while higher doses, of the order of 1000 mg/kg, should be avoided.

From traditional packaging to smart bio-packaging for food safety: a review

AbstractThe need to urgently find alternative plant-based biodegradable fibres is not just important, it is a pressing necessity. The severe environmental damage caused by plastic packaging materials demands immediate action. It is a responsibility that everybody should share to reduce the global plastic pollution rate and environmental footprint. Biodegradable films from natural and waste products have gained considerable consideration for their ability to guarantee optimal product conservation while avoiding any risk of contamination or intoxication. Therefore, this overview addresses recent developments in food packaging and the application of sensors to indicate possible packed food spoilage. The new role of food packaging was discussed widely, from traditional to bio-based, active and intelligent packaging. Until a few years ago, food packaging had the sole purpose of protecting food from external contamination. However, the barrier effect is no longer enough: the packaging should act directly on the food and the surrounding space. The interesting innovation that responds to this need is active and intelligent packaging, a market with solid growth in recent years. It allows the enhancement of food conservation and the detection of pathogens while maintaining good monitoring of the environment inside the package, continuously recording the food conditions. This more complete and interactive information is recorded thanks to special analytical devices: sensors. They can detect and transmit a message to the consumer about food quality, freshness and safety, thanks to the ability to record internal and external changes in the product’s environment. However, these devices are not free from limitations, such as costs and performance, which limit their wider use.

Predictors of Infused Distending Fluid Volume in Hysteroscopic Myomectomy.

Background and Objectives: The use of a bipolar resectoscope has become popular due to the lower risk of hyponatremia. However, gynecologists might overlook the risk of water intoxication. Water intoxication is associated with the infusion of distending fluid. We were interested in the prediction of the infused distending fluid volume in the era of bipolar hysteroscopy. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify the predictors of the infused distending fluid volume for hysteroscopic myomectomy. Materials and Methods: All consecutive women who underwent monopolar (n = 45) or bipolar (n = 137) hysteroscopic myomectomy were reviewed. Results: Myoma diameter (cm, coefficient = 680 mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 334-1025 mL, p <0.001) and bipolar hysteroscopy (coefficient = 1629 mL, 95% CI = 507-2752 mL, p = 0.005) were independent predictors of infused distending fluid volume. A myoma diameter ≥4.0 cm was the optimal cutoff value to predict the presence of >5000 mL of infused distending fluid. One woman in the bipolar group developed life-threatening water intoxication. Conclusions: Myoma diameter is associated with an increase in infused distending fluid volume, especially for myomas ≥4 cm. Meticulous monitoring of the infused distension fluid volume is still crucial to avoid fluid overload during bipolar hysteroscopic myomectomy.

Nitazene test strips: a laboratory evaluation

Background2-Benzylbenzimidazole ‘nitazene’ opioids pose a growing threat to public health. Nitazene analogues are increasingly found mixed with or (mis)sold as heroin and in falsified (non-)opioid medications, posing a great risk of intoxication in users (un)knowingly exposed to these potent opioids. Lateral flow immunoassay nitazene test strips (NTS; BTNX Rapid Response™) became commercially available in Q1 2024, with the aim to enable rapid detection of nitazene analogues in drug samples. As only limited independent data is available on the performance of these strips, this lab-based study aimed at evaluating their potential for drug checking applications.MethodsFollowing dilution of drug standards in water, the NTS readouts were analyzed independently by two individuals and by ImageJ. The limit of detection for isotonitazene was determined using two manufacturing lots of NTS. Cross-reactivity with 32 other nitazene analogues was evaluated. Six sourced drug samples were tested to explore the ability of NTS to detect the presence of a nitazene analogue in authentic samples.ResultsThe limits of detection for isotonitazene were 2000 or 3000 ng/mL, depending on the lot. Twenty-four of the 33 tested nitazene analogues cross-reacted with the NTS at concentrations ≤ 9000 ng/mL. Structural analysis indicated that either substitution or removal of the 5-nitro group, or lengthening the linker between the two aromatic rings, generally hampered detection. All six authentic drug samples consistently tested positive, with no observed false negatives.ConclusionsThis study provides a better understanding of the potential of NTS for drug checking purposes. Our findings indicate that NTS can theoretically alert to the presence of most nitazene analogues that have emerged on recreational drug markets. However, ‘desnitazenes’ (lacking the 5-nitro group) may yield false negative results due to low cross-reactivity. Although factors like specificity, lot-to-lot variability, nitazene analogue content in drug samples, solubility, and different testing conditions should be considered, our study results indicate that, at least under the conditions evaluated here (using reference standards and sourced powders), NTS are capable of detecting the presence of a wide range of nitazene analogues. Hence, NTS may alert users of the presence of nitazene analogues in drug samples.

A historical perspective on clonidine as an alpha-2A receptor agonist in the treatment of addictive behaviors: Focus on opioid dependence.

Clonidine operates through agonism at the alpha-2A receptor, a specific subtype of the alpha-2-adrenergic receptor located predominantly in the prefrontal cortex. By inhibiting the release of norepinephrine, which is responsible for withdrawal symptoms, clonidine effectively addresses withdrawal-related conditions such as anxiety, hypertension, and tachycardia. The groundbreaking work by Gold et al. demonstrated clonidine's ability to counteract the effects of locus coeruleus stimulation, reshaping the understanding of opioid withdrawal within the field. In the 1980s, the efficacy of clonidine in facilitating the transition to long-acting injectable naltrexone was confirmed for individuals motivated to overcome opioid use disorders (OUDs), including physicians and executives. Despite challenges with compliance, naltrexone offers sustained blockade of opioid receptors, reducing the risk of overdose, intoxication, and relapse in motivated patients in recovery. The development of clonidine and naltrexone as treatment modalities for OUDs, and potentially other addictions, including behavioral ones, underscores the potential for translating neurobiological advancements from preclinical models (bench) to clinical practice (bedside), ushering in innovative approaches to addiction treatment.

Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids as Hazardous Toxins in Natural Products: Current Analytical Methods and Latest Legal Regulations.

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) are toxic compounds that occur naturally in certain plants, however, there are many secondary pathways causing PA contamination of other plants, including medicinal herbs and plant-based food products, which pose a risk of human intoxication. It is proven that chronic exposure to PAs causes serious adverse health consequences resulting from their cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. This review briefly presents PA occurrence, structures, chemistry, and toxicity, as well as a set of analytical methods. Recently developed sensitive electrochemical and chromatographic methods for the determination of PAs in honey, teas, herbs, and spices were summarized. The main strategies for improving the analytical efficiency of PA determination are related to the use of mass spectrometric (MS) detection; therefore, this review focuses on advances in MS-based methods. Raising awareness of the potential health risks associated with the presence of PAs in food and herbal medicines requires ongoing research in this area, including the development of sensitive methods for PA determination and rigorous legal regulations of PA intake from herbal products. The maximum levels of PAs in certain products are regulated by the European Commission; however, the precise knowledge about which products contain trace but significant amounts of these alkaloids is still insufficient.

Zinc Toxicity: Understanding the Limits.

Zinc, a vital trace element, holds significant importance in numerous physiological processes within the body. It participates in over 300 enzymatic reactions, metabolic functions, regulation of gene expression, apoptosis and immune modulation, thereby demonstrating its essential role in maintaining overall health and well-being. While zinc deficiency is associated with significant health risks, an excess of this trace element can also lead to harmful effects. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 6.7 to 15 mg per day are referred to be the dietary reference value. An excess of the recommended daily intake may result in symptoms such as anemia, neutropenia and zinc-induced copper deficiency. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) defines the tolerable upper intake level (UL) as 25 mg per day, whereas the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows 40 mg per day. This review will summarize the current knowledge regarding the calculation of UL and other health risks associated with zinc. For example, zinc intake is not limited to oral consumption; other routes, such as inhalation or topical application, may also pose risks of zinc intoxication.

Отруєння фосфором як професійне та екологічно обумовлене захворювання в умовах війни у світлі рекомендацій Міжнародної організації праці 2022 року

Abstract. The issue of diagnosis, registration and monitoring of diseases related to phosphorus poisoning is extremely important, taking into account Russia’s use of phosphorous ammunition on the territory of Ukraine. The system of recognition and monitoring of occupational and environmentally determined diseases needs to be adapted to modern requirements of European legislation. Aim. Analysis of the system for determining occupational phosphorus poisoning in Ukraine and its comparison with modern requirements of The International Labor Organization. Materials and Methods. The analytical review of scientific publications is carried out using abstract databases of scientific libraries PubMed, Medline and text databases of scientific publishers Pub Med, Central, BMJ group and other VIP databases. The analysis of reporting materials of The State Labor Service of Ukraine (SLSU), methodological approaches of The International Labor Organization (ILO) is carried out. Methods of system, comparative, and content analysis are used. Results. The results obtained in the study indicate an extremely low prevalence of toxic lesions of occupational and environmentally determined genesis in Ukraine: chemical intoxication accounts for less than 0.2% in the structure of occupational diseases, and phosphorus poisoning has not been registered in the last 20 years. Significant discrepancies were found in the system of recognition of occupational phosphorus poisoning in Ukraine in comparison with the methodological recommendations of The International Labor Organization-2022. In contrast to the instructions for the application of the list of occupational diseases (LOD) of The International Labor Organization-2022, similar documents in Ukraine do not provide a characteristic of phosphorus properties, its toxicological profile, the minimum duration of exposure that causes occupational disease, the duration of the latent period, which complicates the recognition of occupational diseases, objectification of the diagnosis, and also leads to a distortion of statistical indicators regarding occupational morbidity. Conclusions. The recognition system of occupational phosphorus poisoning in Ukraine needs to be adapted to the European recommendations and requirements recommended by the ILO. First of all, this concerns the list of occupational diseases and instructions for its use, bringing them to the norms of international legislation will allow unifying the diagnostic system, objectifying it and establishing a system for registering occupational diseases at the proper level. The problem is particularly relevant given the high risk of phosphorus intoxication of the population, military and certain professional groups on the territory of military operations in Ukraine. Keywords: phosphorus, occupational poisoning, military operations, list of occupational diseases.

Cyanotoxins bioaccumulation by fish in an anthropized reservoir in central Mexico

The bioaccumulation of cyanotoxins has been well documented in exposed organisms including fish, which represent a potential route to cyanotoxins transfer to humans by consumption of contaminated food. We determined the bioaccumulation of neurotoxic saxitoxins and hepatotoxic microcystins in muscle and liver/viscera of native (Goodea atripinnis), introduced (Poeciliopsis gracilis), and commercially important (Oreochromis niloticus) fish in Santa Catarina, an anthropized reservoir in Central Mexico. Additionally, we calculated the potential risk of human exposure due to the consumption of the studied species. The Santa Catarina Reservoir showed some physical and chemical water parameters generally associated with cyanobacterial blooms (e.g., high phycocyanin, chlorophyll-a, dissolved phosphorus concentrations, and alkaline pH) with presence of cyanotoxins produced by the cyanobacteria genera Microcystis, Dolichospermum, and Planktothrix, which were found in dissolved and particulate (sestonic) fractions of water. Moreover, we detected the presence of saxitoxins and microcystins in the tissues of all species studied. The risk of intoxication for humans was lower for the consumption of Nile tilapia muscle than for the other analyzed species, whose consumption should be avoided since it exceeds the recommended daily intake of microcystins for a short-term (i.e., two-week exposure time). These findings are remarkable because commercial fishing in reservoirs and the consumption of these fish could represent a route to human exposure to toxins, particularly microcystins. Our results highlight the need for the detection of cyanotoxins and the evaluation of their bioaccumulation by fish in unstudied eutrophic waterbodies, to reduce the potential health risk for humans and the environment.

Conductas de riesgo asociadas al manejo de plaguicidas químicos por parte de agricultores del norte de Sinaloa, México

The predominant agriculture in the state of Sinaloa is conventional agriculture, which implies intensive use of pesticides and exposure of many farmers to harmful chemicals. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify those risk behaviors in farmers from northern Sinaloa, Mexico when handling pesticides. Surveys were conducted with farmers from the populations located in Irrigation District 075, including 40 questions related to occupational health and personal hygiene practices. Results show that the majority of farmers (86%) know the health risks to which they are exposed by inadequate handling of pesticides. However, due to economic constraints and lack of knowledge and inspection by authorities, they do not use adequate personal protective equipment and their hygiene practices are inadequate. Consequently, it is essential to develop strategic plans to reduce the risk of intoxication by agrochemicals in rural communities, considering their direct impact on the environment.

Targeted Development of Pyrazoline Derivatives for Neurological Disorders: A Review

AbstractPyrazolines are preferred to be stable heterocycles in medication development. It has been established from previous research that the 2‐pyrazolone scaffold is a common pattern that can be found in many pharmacologically significant therapeutic compounds. They are said to have a wide range of biological actions and have been thoroughly investigated by the scientific community. 2‐pyrazoline has been used as an intriguing pharmacophore to create novel compounds with enhanced potency, less toxicity, and the necessary pharmacokinetic profile to treat unprecedented diseases and global drug resistance. Experiments done by docking confirmed the hypothesized neuropharmacological mode of action and demonstrated a strong affinity towards the monoamine oxidase, β‐amyloid plaques, and AChE. Furthermore, additional computational pharmacokinetic assessments signify that it may not have any significant risk of carcinogenic effects, neurotoxic effects, reproductive intoxication, acute toxicity, mutagenicity, or irritations suggesting their possible utility in depressive, convulsions, and anxiety disorders. This discussion outlines a reliable approach for medicinal chemists to develop pyrazolines for the establishment of neurodegenerative research as well as future research programs on neurodegenerative disorders.

Article biodiversity inside bottles: animals, fungi, and plants in traditional alcoholic drinks.

The use of animals, fungi, and plants as a source of bioactive compounds has been widely practiced in diverse cultures throughout the world, particularly in alcoholic drinks. The nature of the biological material, method of preparation and alcohol concentration play a predominant role in the extraction of bioactive compounds and the achievement of desired results. However, certain aspects must be considered to guarantee the innocuity of these drinks and reduce the risk of intoxication, infections and allergic reactions, aspects which are sometimes overlooked. In addition, the implications of using threatened or protected species must be considered to reduce the negative impact on their populations. The authors recommend the establishment of production systems which guarantee products with adequate quality controls and ensure the benefits to the consumer.

Treatment with Digoxin – is it a clinical challenge? A Retrospective Analysis of Hospitalizations due to Digoxin intoxication

Introduction and purpose: Digoxin, a cardiac glycoside derived from Digitalis lanata, has stood as a cornerstone in the treatment of various cardiovascular disorders for centuries. This study aims to delve into the demographic aspects, clinical characteristics, and outcomes associated with Digoxin poisoning. By drawing upon a dataset involving 22 patients hospitalized for Digoxin intoxication at the Clinical Department of Toxicology and Cardiology in Lublin, Poland, spanning from April 2014 to December 2023, our investigation seeks to provide an understanding of this issue.Brief description of the state of knowledge: Despite the efficacy of Digoxin, the potential risk of intoxication, especially in the elderly, necessitate a comprehensive examination. Age-related changes, such as declining renal function, electrolyte imbalances, comorbidities and polypharmacy affect how drugs like Digoxin work. The symptoms of Digoxin poisoning can manifest in various organ systems such as cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, nervous system, highlighting the importance of prompt recognition to seek medical attention.Methods and results: In our study, we analyzed data from 22 patients hospitalized due to Digoxin intoxication, focusing on demographic aspects, clinical characteristics and outcomes. The cases of Digoxin poisoning were categorized according to several factors, including the quantity and nature of substances consumed, the cause of intoxication, gender, age brackets, health conditions, peak serum Digoxin levels, length and outcomes of hospitalization.Conclusions: Our study provides insights into the characteristics and outcomes of patients hospitalized due to Digoxin intoxication. The findings underscore the association of Digoxin poisoning, and emphasize the importance of monitoring serum levels to prevent adverse outcomes. As Digoxin continues to be relevant in treating cardiovascular conditions, our study calls for careful management and monitoring.

Bipolar Disorder in Pregnancy: A Challenging Case Managed with Maintenance Electroconvulsive Therapy

IntroductionPregnancy is a high-risk period for major affective disorders and can lead to a destabilizing period for our patients. Standard pharmacological strategies must be carefully evaluated due to potential teratogenic or side effects. We present a case of bipolar disorder type I with challenging-to-control maniac episodes during pregnancy, which has required Electroconvulsive Therapy for its management.ObjectivesPresenting maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) as a safe and effective therapeutic strategy during pregnancy, with the presentation of a case in which it has been administered every 3 weeks from the second trimester until the baby’s birth at 37 weeksMethodsThis concerns a 28-year-old immigrant woman, married, with a 10-year-old child. She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder type I at the age of 16 when she experienced her first manic episode in her country of origin. Subsequently, during her first pregnancy, she required hospitalization for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) treatment, with a positive response after a single session. She remained stable for several years without maintenance pharmacological treatment or follow-up until the ninth week of her second pregnancy when she experienced a manic episode requiring hospitalization.ResultsShe was initially treated with Olanzapine and Lorazepam with a positive response, but three weeks later, she was readmitted with a similar episode. These decompensations occurred almost monthly, leading to the consideration of introducing mood stabilizers after the first trimester. However, due to the patient’s severe hyperemesis gravidarum, this stabilizing treatment was ruled out due to the difficulty in controlling its blood levels and the associated risk of intoxication. During the fifth admission at the 20th week of gestation, the decision was made to initiate ECT treatment, which yielded an excellent response and subsequent maintenance.ConclusionsThe indications for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) during pregnancy are the same as in the rest of adult patients. In individuals with a psychiatric history, it is possible for a relapse of mental illness to occur during pregnancy, although the risk is considerably higher during the postpartum period. ECT is considered an effective and safe treatment option in all three trimesters of pregnancy and the postpartum period. During the informed consent process, patients should be informed about the potential impact of ECT as well as alternative treatment options.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Cardioprotective and Hematological Effects of Wonderful Kola (Buchholzia coriacea) in Wistar Rats Exposed to Aluminum Chloride-Induced Toxicity

Aluminium pervades ecosystems, posing a nuanced risk of intoxication for both animal and human cohorts. In this paper, cardioprotective and haematological effects of wonderful kola (Buchholzia coriacea) in Wistar rats exposed to aluminum chloride-induced toxicity was investigated by different methods including haematological analysis revealed significant decreases in PCV, HB, RBC, and PLT, with increased WBC in the aluminum chloride-induced group, indicating hematological toxicity (p &lt; 0.05). Vitamin C partially restored parameters, while both low and high doses of Wonderful Kola extract showed positive effects, suggesting potential protection against aluminum chloride-induced toxicity (p &lt; 0.05). Histological assessment demonstrated severe inflammation in the aluminum chloride-induced group, partial protection with vitamin C, and potential protective effects with Wonderful Kola, especially at higher doses. Wonderful Kola extract exhibited protective effects on cardiac tissue histology in aluminum chloride-induced toxicity, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent. These results contribute to the understanding of the potential therapeutic benefits of natural products in mitigating cardiovascular diseases. Further research on natural remedies for cardiovascular diseases is warranted, and caution should be exercised when considering treatments that may have detrimental effects on cardiac structure.

INCREASED RISK OF CHEMICAL TERROR ATTACKS

The risk of using highly toxic chemicals in a terrorist attack is resurfacing. Over the last fewdecades, terrorists have proven that they can source, develop and produce their own toxicchemicals. These substances are particularly dangerous for civilians who do not have access tothe protective equipment to be used in the event of contamination. It is impossible to guaranteefull public security in relation to the threats of chemical terrorism. Only trained, functioningand cooperating elements of state crisis response systems (mainly: medical rescue services,fire brigades, the police and the army) are capable of minimising the negative effects of theseattacks on the civilian population. This problem is becoming particularly important in view of theongoing Russian-Ukrainian war and the potential use of chemical weapons by the Russian army.An important problem impacting the extent of poisoning after a chemical attack is secondarycontamination of people and emergency equipment. The authors, through a detailed descriptionof the sources of secondary pollution, propose a number of solutions aimed at minimizing the riskof poisoning in people who are not directly exposed to chemical hazardous agents as a result ofsecondary contamination. The proposed solutions are based on the experience of chemical troopsin the elimination of chemical contamination of a large number of people, as well as the experienceof the authors related to the implementation of research and development projects regarding theprotection and operating procedures of rescue services in CBRN contamination zones.

In Vitro Functional Profiling of Fentanyl and Nitazene Analogs at the μ-Opioid Receptor Reveals High Efficacy for Gi Protein Signaling.

Novel synthetic opioids (NSOs), including both fentanyl and non-fentanyl analogs that act as μ-opioid receptor (MOR) agonists, are associated with serious intoxication and fatal overdose. Previous studies proposed that G-protein-biased MOR agonists are safer pain medications, while other evidence indicates that low intrinsic efficacy at MOR better explains the reduced opioid side effects. Here, we characterized the in vitro functional profiles of various NSOs at the MOR using adenylate cyclase inhibition and β-arrestin2 recruitment assays, in conjunction with the application of the receptor depletion approach. By fitting the concentration-response data to the operational model of agonism, we deduced the intrinsic efficacy and affinity for each opioid in the Gi protein signaling and β-arrestin2 recruitment pathways. Compared to the reference agonist [d-Ala2,N-MePhe4,Gly-ol5]enkephalin, we found that several fentanyl analogs were more efficacious at inhibiting cAMP production, whereas all fentanyl analogs were less efficacious at recruiting β-arrestin2. In contrast, the non-fentanyl 2-benzylbenzimidazole (i.e., nitazene) analogs were highly efficacious and potent in both the cAMP and β-arrestin2 assays. Our findings suggest that the high intrinsic efficacy of the NSOs in Gi protein signaling is a common property that may underlie their high risk of intoxication and overdose, highlighting the limitation of using in vitro functional bias to predict the adverse effects of opioids. In addition, the extremely high potency of many NSOs now infiltrating illicit drug markets further contributes to the danger posed to public health.

Insights on hazardous metal bioaccessibility, and groundwater impacted by Zn residues from a legacy mine and risk evaluation of adjacent soils.

This study explored the legacy impact of Zinc plant residues (ZPRs) in Kabwe, Zambia, on the environment and human health, particularly in light of the town's reputation for Pb pollution. ZPRs solid samples and groundwater within and around ZPRs zone were collected from the legacy mine, along with soils in a 10km radius from the mine site. Bioaccessible fractions of Pb and Zn were elucidated by Japanese leaching test (JLT) and simple bioaccessibility extraction test (SBET). Cationic speciation of Pb and Zn from inhalable and ingestible ZPRs particles was investigated via sequential extraction. Groundwater in the ZPRs area showed higher Zn levels (1490mg/L) compared to Pb (1.7mg/L). Elevated Zn concentration were facilitated by the presence of soluble Zn sulfates while Pb was constrained due to its precipitation as anglesite. Groundwater sampled outside the ZPRs area was within the Zambia regulatory limits (< 0.5mg/L for Pb and < 1mg/L for Zn). Inhalation exposure to < 30µm dust particles from ZPRs and soils near the mine indicated negligible risk, with < 3% of bioaccessible Pb in artificial lysosomal fluid. Meanwhile, oral intake of ZPRs particles < 250µm revealed elevated bioaccessible fractions (36% for Pb and 70% for Zn). ZPRs cationic speciation of ingestible particles < 30µm, 30-75µm, 75-150µm and 150-250µm indicated that the bioaccessible Pb predominantly emanated from labile Pb fractions under gastric conditions with pH < 1. This was due to the dissolution of Pb associated with the exchangeable phase, carbonates and iron/manganese oxides; however, only exchangeable/carbonate Pb was bioaccessible at pH < 2. Hazard quotients indicated increased risks of Pb intoxication through the ingestion of ZPRs and soils near the legacy mine, with higher risks observed in children, emphasizing the need to remediate legacy mine wastes to reduce health risks and protect groundwater through monitoring in mining-affected regions.