A systematic review of cardiovascular responses associated with ambient black carbon and fine particulate matter

Associations of exposure to PM2.5 and its compounds with carotid intima-media thickness among middle-aged adults

BACKGROUND

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been linked to an increased risk of atherosclerosis. However, it remains unclear whether specific compounds within PM2.5, rather than the overall mass, serve as a better indicator of adverse cardiovascular health outcomes associated with air pollution.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, we included 3257 participants (aged 37-51 years) from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. Exposure to PM2.5 and its constituent compounds, black carbon (BC), ammonium, nitrate, organic matter, sulfate, mineral dust, and sea salt were included in the analyses. Carotid intima media thickness (cIMT; the average of common, bulb, and internal carotid) was measured by carotid ultrasonography. We assessed the cross-sectional associations of one-year exposure to PM2.5 and its compounds with mean cIMT using linear regression models adjusting for participants' demographics, individual- and neighborhood-level socioeconomic status, behavioral components, and health conditions. We also adopted Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) models to investigate the association between the PM2.5 compound mixture and cIMT as well as the contribution of each compound to the association.

RESULTS

Greater exposure to BC was associated with higher cIMT (mm) (β =0.034, 95 % CI = 0.019-0.049, per IQR increase [0.56 μg/m3] of BC) among participants with a mean age of 45.0, consisting of 45.9 % Black and 54.1 % White males and females. The association was generally consistent across participants' demographic characteristics. In our BKMR analysis, BC exhibited a dose-response association with cIMT with a high contribution to the association of cIMT with PM2.5 compound as a mixture (posterior inclusion probability [PIP]: 1.00).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that certain compounds of PM2.5, such as BC, may offer more reliable indications of the impact of air pollution on cardiovascular health.

Associations between PM 2.5 and its chemical constituents and blood pressure: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the associations between PM 2.5 and its chemical constituents with blood pressure (BP), assess effects across BP quantiles, and identify the key constituent elevating BP.

METHODS

A total of 36 792 adults were included in the cross-sectional study, representing 25 districts/counties of southeast China. Quantile regression models were applied to estimate the associations of PM 2.5 and its chemical constituents (ammonium [NH 4+ ], nitrate [NO 3- ], sulfate [SO 42- ], black carbon [BC], organic matter [OM]) with systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean artery pressure (MAP). A weighted quantile sum (WQS) index was used to estimate the relative importance of each PM 2.5 chemical constituent to the joint effect on BP.

RESULTS

The adverse effects of each interquartile range (IQR) increase in PM 2.5 , NH 4+ , NO 3- , SO 42- , and BC on BP were found to be greater with elevated BP, especially when SBP exceeded 133 mmHg and DBP exceeded 82 mmHg. Each IQR increase in all five PM 2.5 chemical constituents was associated with elevated SBP ( β [95% CI]: 0.90 [0.75, 1.05]), DBP ( β : 0.44 [0.34, 0.53]), and MAP ( β : 0.57 [0.45, 0.69]), NH 4+ (for SBP: weight = 99.43%; for DBP: 12.78%; for MAP: 60.73%) and BC (for DBP: 87.06%; for MAP: 39.07%) predominantly influencing these effects. The joint effect of PM 2.5 chemical constituents on risks for elevated SBP and DBP exhibited an upward trend from the 70 th quantile (SBP exceeded 133 mmHg, DBP exceeded 82 mmHg).

CONCLUSION

Long-term exposure to PM 2.5 and its chemical constituents was associated with increased risk for elevated BP, with NH 4+ and BC being the main contributors, and such associations were significantly stronger at 70th to 90th quantiles (SBP exceeded 133 mmHg, DBP exceeded 82 mmHg).

Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter constituents, genetic susceptibility, and incident heart failure among 411 807 adults

AIMS

Long-term fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure has been linked to incident heart failure (HF), but the impacts of its constituents remain unknown. We aimed to investigate the associations of PM2.5 constituents with incident HF, and further evaluate the modification effects of genetic susceptibility.

METHODS AND RESULTS

PM2.5 and its constituents, including elemental carbon (EC), organic matter (OM), ammonium (NH4 +), nitrate (NO3 -), and sulfate (SO4 2-), were estimated using the European Monitoring and Evaluation Programme model applied to the UK (EMEP4UK) driven by Weather and Research Forecast model meteorology. A polygenic risk score (PRS) was calculated to represent genetic susceptibility to HF. We employed Cox models to evaluate the associations of PM2.5 constituents with incident HF. Quantile-based g-computation model was used to identify the main contributor of PM2.5 constituents. Among 411 807 individuals in the UK Biobank, 7554 participants developed HF during a median follow-up of 12.05 years. The adjusted hazard ratios of HF for each interquartile range increase in PM2.5, EC, OM, NH4 +, NO3 -, and SO4 2- were 1.50 (1.46-1.54), 1.31 (1.27-1.34), 1.12 (1.09-1.15), 1.42 (1.41-1.44), 1.26 (1.23-1.29), and 1.25 (1.24-1.26), respectively. EC (43%) played the most important role, followed by NH4 + and SO4 2-. Moreover, synergistic additive interactions accounted for 9-16% of the HF events in individuals exposed to both PM2.5, NH4 +, NO3 -, and SO4 2- and PRS.

CONCLUSION

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 constituents may elevate HF risk, and EC was the major contributor. Additive effects of PM2.5 constituents and PRS on HF risk were revealed.

Spatiotemporal variations and source on black carbon over Chongqing, China: Long-term changes and observational experiments

Black carbon (BC), as a critical light-absorbing constituent within aerosols, exerts profound effects on atmospheric radiation balance, climate, air quality and human health, etc. And it is also a long-standing focus in rapidly developing megacities. So, this study primarily focuses on investigating the variation characteristics and underlying causes of BC in Chongqing (31,914,300 population), which is one of the municipalities directly under the central government of China, serving as a pivotal economic hub in southwest China. Utilizing MERRA-2 reanalysis data, we examined the long-term changes of atmospheric BC over Chongqing 20 years (from 2002 to 2021). Moreover, BC mass concentration observations were conducted using an Aethalometer (AE-33) from March 15 to June 14, 2021 in Liangping District, Chongqing. The statistical analysis over the last 20 years reveals an annual mean BC concentration in Chongqing of 3.42 ± 0.20 μg/m3, exhibiting growth from 2002 to 2008, followed by a decline from 2008 to 2021. Monthly concentration displays a "U-shaped" trend, with the lowest values occurring in summer and the highest in winter. Due to topographical and meteorological influences, local emissions primarily contribute to BC pollution, characterized by a spatial distribution pattern of high in the west and low in the east. Ground observation indicates a distinct dual-peaked pattern in the diurnal variation of BC, with peak concentrations aligning with periods of high traffic emissions. The variation in BC is significantly influenced by meteorological conditions (wind, temperature, atmospheric boundary layer) and local pollution sources (predominantly traffic). Furthermore, extreme events analysis suggests that local emissions and regional transport (with higher contributions from Chongqing and the Sichuan Basin) predominantly contributed to BC pollution. This study effectively makes up for the deficiency in analyzing the distribution and sources of BC pollution in Chongqing, providing valuable scientific insights for the atmospheric environment of megacities.

Interaction between Extreme Temperature Events and Fine Particulate Matter on Cardiometabolic Multimorbidity: Evidence from Four National Cohort Studies

Accumulating evidence linked extreme temperature events (ETEs) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) to cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM); however, it remained unknown if and how ETEs and PM2.5 interact to trigger CMM occurrence. Merging four Chinese national cohorts with 64,140 free-CMM adults, we provided strong evidence among ETEs, PM2.5 exposure, and CMM occurrence. Performing Cox hazards regression models along with additive interaction analyses, we found that the hazards ratio (HRs) of CMM occurrence associated with heatwave and cold spell were 1.006-1.019 and 1.063-1.091, respectively. Each 10 μg/m3 increment of PM2.5 concentration was associated with 17.9% (95% confidence interval: 13.9-22.0%) increased risk of CMM. Similar adverse effects were also found among PM2.5 constituents of nitrate, organic matter, sulfate, ammonium, and black carbon. We observed a synergetic interaction of heatwave and PM2.5 pollution on CMM occurrence with relative excess risk due to the interaction of 0.999 (0.663-1.334). Our study provides novel evidence that both ETEs and PM2.5 exposure were positively associated with CMM occurrence, and the heatwave interacts synergistically with PM2.5 to trigger CMM.

Long-term associations of PM1 versus PM2.5 and PM10 with asthma and asthma-related respiratory symptoms in the middle-aged and elderly population

Background

Few studies have compared the associations between long-term exposures to particulate matters (aerodynamic diameter ≤1, ≤2.5 and ≤10 µm: PM1, PM2.5 and PM10, respectively) and asthma and asthma-related respiratory symptoms. The objective of the present study was to compare the strength of the aforementioned associations in middle-aged and elderly adults.

Methods

We calculated the mean 722-day personal exposure estimates of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 at 1 km×1 km spatial resolution between 2013 and 2019 at individual levels from China High Air Pollutants (CHAP) datasets. Using logistic regression models, we presented the associations as odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, for each interquartile range (IQR) increase in PM1/PM2.5/PM10 concentration. Asthma denoted a self-reported history of physician-diagnosed asthma or wheezing in the preceding 12 months.

Results

We included 7371 participants in COPD surveillance from Guangdong, China. Each IQR increase in PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 was associated with a greater odds (OR (95% CI)) of asthma (PM1: 1.22 (1.02-1.45); PM2.5: 1.24 (1.04-1.48); PM10: 1.30 (1.07-1.57)), wheeze (PM1: 1.27 (1.11-1.44); PM2.5: 1.30 (1.14-1.48); PM10: 1.34 (1.17-1.55)), persistent cough (PM1: 1.33 (1.06-1.66); PM2.5: 1.36 (1.09-1.71); PM10: 1.31 (1.02-1.68)) and dyspnoea (PM1: 2.10 (1.84-2.41); PM2.5: 2.17 (1.90-2.48); PM10: 2.29 (1.96-2.66)). Sensitivity analysis results were robust after excluding individuals with a family history of allergy. Associations of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 with asthma and asthma-related respiratory symptoms were slightly stronger in males.

Conclusion

Long-term exposure to PM is associated with increased risks of asthma and asthma-related respiratory symptoms.

Exploring the link between ambient PM2.5 concentrations and respiratory diseases in the elderly: a study in the Muang district of Khon Kaen, Thailand

The impact of air pollution is a major public health concern. However, there are few studies on the correlation between PM2.5 and respiratory infections. This study aimed to determine a link between PM2.5 and respiratory diseases among the elderly in Thailand. The data source for this study consisted of 43 electronic files from the Khon Kaen Provincial Health Office covering years 2020 and 2021 and surveyed a total of 43,534 people. The generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) was used to determine the adjusted odds ratio (AOR), and 95 % CI. We found that exposure to PM2.5 concentrations (in 10 μg m-3 increments) was associated with respiratory diseases (AOR: 3.98; 95 % CI [1.53-10.31]). Respondents who are male, aged less than 80 years, single, self-employed, or working as contractors, have a body mass index (BMI) not equal to the standard, have NCDs (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease), are smokers, live in sub-districts where more than 5 % of the land is planted to sugarcane, or live in close proximity to a biomass power plant were at significantly higher risk of developing respiratory diseases (p<0.05). Therefore, environmental factors including ambient PM2.5 concentrations, the proportion of sugarcane plantation areas, and biomass power plants impact the occurrence of respiratory diseases among the elderly. Also, demographic factors and NCDs are serious issues. Systematic approaches to reducing PM2.5 levels in industrial and agricultural sectors are necessary for both the general population and vulnerable groups, including the elderly and NCD patients.

Associations of Long-Term Exposure to Fine Particulate Constituents With Cardiovascular Diseases and Underlying Metabolic Mediations: A Prospective Population-Based Cohort in Southwest China

BACKGROUND

The health effects of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) might differ depending on compositional variations. Little is known about the joint effect of PM2.5 constituents on metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aims to evaluate the combined associations of PM2.5 components with CVD, identify the most detrimental constituent, and further quantify the mediation effect of metabolic syndrome.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 14 427 adults were included in a cohort study in Sichuan, China, and were followed to obtain the diagnosis of CVD until 2021. Metabolic syndrome was defined by the simultaneous occurrence of multiple metabolic disorders measured at baseline. The concentrations of PM2.5 chemical constituents within a 1-km2 grid were derived based on satellite- and ground-based detection methods. Cox proportional hazard models showed that black carbon, organic matter (OM), nitrate, ammonium, chloride, and sulfate were positively associated with CVD risks, with hazard ratios (HRs) ranging from 1.24 to 2.11 (all P<0.05). Quantile g-computation showed positive associations with 4 types of CVD risks (HRs ranging from 1.48 to 2.25, all P<0.05). OM and chloride had maximum weights for CVD risks. Causal mediation analysis showed that the positive association of OM with total CVD was mediated by metabolic syndrome, with a mediation proportion of 1.3% (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 chemical constituents is positively associated with CVD risks. OM and chloride appear to play the most responsible role in the positive associations between PM2.5 and CVD. OM is probably associated with CVD through metabolic-related pathways.

A multi-omics investigation of the lung injury induced by PM2.5 at environmental levels via the lung-gut axis

Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) posed injury for gastrointestinal and respiratory systems, ascribing with the lung-gut axis. However, the cross-talk mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we attempted to establish the response networks of lung-gut axis in mice exposed to PM2.5 at environmental levels. Male Balb/c mice were exposed to PM2.5 (dose of 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/kg) collected from Chengdu, China for 10 weeks, through intratracheally instillation, and examined the effect of PM2.5 on lung functions of mice. The changes of lung and gut microbiota and metabolic profiles of mice in different groups were determined. Furthermore, the results of multi-omics were conjointly analyzed to elucidate the primary microbes and the associated metabolites in lung and gut responsible for PM2.5 exposure. Accordingly, the cross-talk network and key pathways between lung-gut axis were established. The results indicated that exposed to PM2.5 0.1 mg/kg induced obvious inflammations in mice lung, while emphysema was observed at 1.0 mg/kg. The levels of metabolites guanosine, hypoxanthine, and hepoxilin B3 increased in the lung might contribute to lung inflammations in exposure groups. For microbiotas in lung, PM2.5 exposure significantly declined the proportions of Halomonas and Lactobacillus. Meanwhile, the metabolites in gut including L-tryptophan, serotonin, and spermidine were up-regulated in exposure groups, which were linked to the decreasing of Oscillospira and Helicobacter in gut. Via lung-gut axis, the activations of pathways including Tryptophan metabolism, ABC transporters, Serotonergic synapse, and Linoleic acid metabolism contributed to the cross-talk between lung and gut tissues of mice mediated by PM2.5. In summary, the microbes including Lactobacillus, Oscillospira, and Parabacteroides, and metabolites including hepoxilin B3, guanosine, hypoxanthine, L-tryptophan, and spermidine were the main drivers. In this lung-gut axis study, we elucidated some pro- and pre-biotics in lung and gut microenvironments contributed to the adverse effects on lung functions induced by PM2.5 exposure.

Association of pulmonary black carbon accumulation with cardiac fibrosis in residents of Sao Paulo, Brazil

Evidence suggests that myocardial interstitial fibrosis, resulting from cardiac remodeling, may possibly be influenced by mechanisms activated through the inhalation of airborne pollutants. However, limited studies have explored the relationship between lifetime exposure to carbon-based particles and cardiac fibrosis, specially using post-mortem samples. This study examined whether long-term exposure to air pollution (estimated by black carbon accumulated in the lungs) is associated with myocardial fibrosis in urban dwellers of megacity of Sao Paulo. Data collection included epidemiological and autopsy-based approaches. Information was obtained by interviewing the next of kin and through the pathologist's report. The individual index of exposure to carbon-based particles, which we designed as the fraction of black carbon (FBC), was estimated through quantification of particles on the macroscopic lung surface. Myocardium samples were collected for histopathological analysis to evaluate the fraction of cardiac fibrosis. The association between cardiac fibrosis and FBC, age, sex, smoking status and hypertension was assessed by means of multiple linear regression models. Our study demonstrated that the association of FBC with cardiac fibrosis is influenced by smoking status and hypertension. Among hypertensive individuals, the cardiac fibrosis fraction tended to increase with the increase of the FBC in both groups of smokers and non-smokers. In non-hypertensive individuals, the association between cardiac fibrosis fraction and FBC was observed primarily in smokers. Long-term exposure to tobacco smoke and environmental particles may contribute to the cardiac remodeling response in individuals with pre-existing hypertension. This highlights the importance of considering hypertension as an additional risk factor for the health effects of air pollution on the cardiovascular system. Moreover, the study endorses the role of autopsy to investigate the effects of urban environment and personal habits in determining human disease.

Long-term exposure to ambient fine particulate matter constituents and mortality from total and site-specific gastrointestinal cancer

BACKGROUND

Ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure has been associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal cancer mortality, but the attributable constituents remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the association of long-term exposure to PM2.5 constituents with total and site-specific gastrointestinal cancer mortality using a difference-in-differences approach in Jiangsu province, China during 2015-2020.

METHODS

We split Jiangsu into 53 spatial units and computed their yearly death number of total gastrointestinal, esophagus, stomach, colorectum, liver, and pancreas cancer. Utilizing a high-quality grid dataset on PM2.5 constituents, we estimated 10-year population-weighted exposure to black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC), sulfate, nitrate, ammonium, and chloride in each spatial unit. The effect of constituents on gastrointestinal cancer mortality was assessed by controlling time trends, spatial differences, gross domestic product (GDP), and seasonal temperatures.

RESULTS

Overall, 524,019 gastrointestinal cancer deaths were ascertained in 84.77 million population. Each interquartile range increment of BC (0.46 μg/m3), OC (4.56 μg/m3), and nitrate (1.41 μg/m3) was significantly associated with a 27%, 26%, and 34% increased risk of total gastrointestinal cancer mortality, respectively, and these associations remained significant in PM2.5-adjusted models and constituent-residual models. We also identified robust associations of BC, OC, and nitrate exposures with site-specific gastrointestinal cancer mortality. The mortality risk generally displayed increased trends across the total exposure range and rose steeper at higher levels. We did not identify robust associations for sulfate, ammonium, or chlorine exposure. Higher mortality risk ascribed to constituent exposures was identified in total gastrointestinal and liver cancer among women, stomach cancer among men, and total gastrointestinal and stomach cancer among low-GDP regions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers consistent evidence that long-term exposure to PM2.5-bound BC, OC, and nitrate is associated with total and site-specific gastrointestinal cancer mortality, indicating that these constituents need to be controlled to mitigate the adverse effect of PM2.5 on gastrointestinal cancer mortality.

Ambient fine particulate matter chemical composition associated with in-hospital case fatality, hospital expenses, and length of hospital stay among patients with heart failure in China

*Joint senior authorship.

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have observed the adverse effects of ambient fine particulate matter pollution (PM2.5) on heart failure (HF). However, evidence regarding the impacts of specific PM2.5 components remains scarce.

METHODS

We included 58 129 patients hospitalised for HF between 2013 and 2017 in 11 cities of Shanxi, China from inpatient discharge database. We evaluated exposure to PM2.5 and its components ((sulphate (SO42-), nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), organic matter (OM) and black carbon (BC)), along with meteorological factors using bilinear interpolation at each patients' residential address. We used multivariable logistic and linear regression models to assess the associations of these components with in-hospital case fatality, hospital expenses, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Increase equivalents to the interquartile range (IQR) in OM (odds ratio (OR) = 1.13; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02, 1.26) and BC (OR = 1.14; 95% CI = 1.02, 1.26) were linked to in-hospital case fatality. Per IQR increments in PM2.5, SO42-, NO3-, OM, and BC were associated with cost increases of 420.62 (95% CI = 285.75, 555.49), 221.83 (95% CI = 96.95, 346.71), 214.93 (95% CI = 68.66, 361.21), 300.06 (95% CI = 176.96, 423.16), and 303.09 (95% CI = 180.76, 425.42) CNY. Increases of 1 IQR in PM2.5, SO42-, OM, and BC were associated with increases in length of hospital stay of 0.10 (95% CI = 0.02, 0.19), 0.09 (95% CI = 0.02, 0.17), 0.10 (95% CI = 0.03, 0.17), and 0.16 (95% CI = 0.08, 0.23) days.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that ambient SO42-, OM, and BC might be significant risk factors for HF, emphasising the importance of formulating customised guidelines for the chemical constituents of PM and controlling the emissions of the most dangerous components.

Concentration-dependent alterations in the human plasma proteome following controlled exposure to diesel exhaust

Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) exposure is associated with systemic health effects, which can be studied using blood-based markers. Although we have previously shown that high TRAP concentrations alter the plasma proteome, the concentration-response relationship between blood proteins and TRAP is unexplored in controlled human exposure studies. We aimed to identify concentration-dependent plasma markers of diesel exhaust (DE), a model of TRAP. Fifteen healthy non-smokers were enrolled into a double-blinded, crossover study where they were exposed to filtered air (FA) and DE at 20, 50 and 150 μg/m3 PM2.5 for 4h, separated by ≥ 4-week washouts. We collected blood at 24h post-exposure and used label-free mass spectrometry to quantify proteins in plasma. Proteins exhibiting a concentration-response, as determined by linear mixed effects models (LMEMs), were assessed for pathway enrichment using WebGestalt. Top candidates, identified by sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis and LMEMs, were confirmed using enzyme-linked immunoassays. Thereafter, we assessed correlations between proteins that showed a DE concentration-response and acute inflammatory endpoints, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and methacholine provocation concentration causing a 20% drop in FEV1 (PC20). DE exposure was associated with concentration-dependent alterations in 45 proteins, which were enriched in complement pathways. Of the 9 proteins selected for confirmatory immunoassays, based on complementary bioinformatic approaches to narrow targets and availability of high-quality assays, complement factor I (CFI) exhibited a significant concentration-dependent decrease (-0.02 μg/mL per μg/m3 of PM2.5, p = 0.04). Comparing to FA at discrete concentrations, CFI trended downward at 50 (-2.14 ± 1.18, p = 0.08) and significantly decreased at 150 μg/m3 PM2.5 (-2.93 ± 1.18, p = 0.02). CFI levels were correlated with FEV1, PC20 and nasal interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β. This study details concentration-dependent alterations in the plasma proteome following DE exposure at concentrations relevant to occupational and community settings. CFI shows a robust concentration-response and association with established measures of airway function and inflammation.

Epigenetic mechanisms of particulate matter exposure: air pollution and hazards on human health

Environmental pollution nowadays has not only a direct correlation with human health changes but a direct social impact. Epidemiological studies have evidenced the increased damage to human health on a daily basis because of damage to the ecological niche. Rapid urban growth and industrialized societies importantly compromise air quality, which can be assessed by a notable accumulation of air pollutants in both the gas and the particle phases. Of them, particulate matter (PM) represents a highly complex mixture of organic and inorganic compounds of the most variable size, composition, and origin. PM being one of the most complex environmental pollutants, its accumulation also varies in a temporal and spatial manner, which challenges current analytical techniques used to investigate PM interactions. Nevertheless, the characterization of the chemical composition of PM is a reliable indicator of the composition of the atmosphere, the quality of breathed air in urbanized societies, industrial zones and consequently gives support for pertinent measures to avoid serious health damage. Epigenomic damage is one of the most promising biological mechanisms of air pollution-derived carcinogenesis. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the implication of PM exposure in diverse molecular mechanisms driving human diseases by altered epigenetic regulation. The presented findings in the context of pan-organic cancer, fibrosis, neurodegeneration and metabolic diseases may provide valuable insights into the toxicity effects of PM components at the epigenomic level and may serve as biomarkers of early detection for novel targeted therapies.

Obesity-related cardiometabolic indicators modify the associations of personal noise exposure with heart rate variability: A further investigation on the Study among Obese and Normal-weight Adults (SONA)

Elucidating the associations between environmental noise and heart rate variability (HRV) would be beneficial for the prevention and control of detrimental cardiovascular changes. Obese people have been found to manifest heightened susceptibility to the adverse effects of noise on HRV. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Based on 53 normal-weight and 44 obese young adults aged 18-26 years in Beijing, China, this study aimed to investigate the role of obesity-related cardiometabolic indicators for associations between short-term environmental noise exposure and HRV in the real-world context. The participants underwent personal noise exposure and ambulatory electrocardiogram monitoring using portable devices at 5-min intervals for 24 continuous hours. Obesity-related blood pressure, glucose and lipid metabolism, and inflammatory indicators were subsequently examined. Generalized mixed-effect models were used to estimate the associations between noise exposure and HRV parameters. The C-peptide, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and leptin levels were higher in obese participants compared to normal-weight participants. We observed amplified associations between short-term noise exposure and decreases in HRV among participants with higher C-peptide, HOMA-IR, and leptin levels. For instance, a 1 dB(A) increment in 3 h-average noise exposure level preceding each measurement was associated with changes of -0.20% (95%CI: -0.45%, 0.04%) and -1.35% (95%CI: -1.85%, -0.86%) in standard deviation of all normal to normal intervals (SDNN) among participants with lower and higher C-peptide levels, respectively (P for interaction <0.05). Meanwhile, co-existing fine particulate matter (PM2.5) could amplify the associations between noise and HRV among obese participants and participants with higher C-peptide, HOMA-IR, and leptin levels. The more apparent associations of short-term exposure to environmental noise with HRV and the effect modification by PM2.5 may be partially explained by the higher C-peptide, HOMA-IR, and leptin levels of obese people.

Association of Fine Particulate Matter Constituents with the Predicted 10-Year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Evidence from a Large-Scale Cross-Sectional Study

Little is known concerning the associations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and its constituents with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). A total of 31,162 participants enrolled from the Henan Rural Cohort were used to specify associations of PM2.5 and its constituents with ASCVD. Hybrid machine learning was utilized to estimate the 3-year average concentration of PM2.5 and its constituents (black carbon [BC], nitrate [NO3-], ammonium [NH4+], inorganic sulfate [SO42-], organic matter [OM], and soil particles [SOIL]). Constituent concentration, proportion, and residual models were utilized to examine the associations of PM2.5 constituents with 10-year ASCVD risk and to identify the most hazardous constituent. The isochronous substitution model (ISM) was employed to analyze the substitution effect between PM2.5 constituents. We found that each 1 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5, BC, NH4+, NO3-, OM, SO42-, and SOIL was associated with a 3.5%, 49.3%, 19.4%, 10.5%, 21.4%, 14%, and 28.5% higher 10-year ASCVD risk, respectively (all p < 0.05). Comparable results were observed in proportion and residual models. The ISM found that replacing BC with other constituents will generate the greatest health benefits. The results indicated that long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its constituents were associated with increased risks of ASCVD, with BC being the most attributable constituent.

Ambient PM2.5 and its components associated with 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in Chinese adults

BACKGROUND

Exposure to particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters less than 2.5 µm (PM2.5) may increase the risk of 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk. While PM2.5 is comprised of various components, the evidence on the correlation of its components with 10-year ASCVD risk and which component contributes most remains limited.

METHODS

Data were derived from the baseline assessments of China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (CMEC). In total, 69,722 individuals aged 35-74 years were included into this study. The annual average concentration of PM2.5 and its components (black carbon, ammonium, nitrate, sulfate, organic matter, soil particles, and sea salt) were estimated by satellite remote sensing and chemical transport models. The ASCVD risk of individuals was calculated by the equations from the China-PAR Project (prediction for ASCVD risk in China). The relationship between single exposure to PM2.5 and its components and predicted 10-year ASCVD risk was assessed using the logistic regression model. The effect of joint exposure was estimated, and the most significant contributor was identified using the weighted quantile sum approach.

RESULTS

Totally 69,722 participants were included, of which 95.8 % and 4.2 % had low and high 10-year ASCVD risk, respectively. Per standard deviation increases in the 3-year average concentration of PM2.5 mass (odds ratio [OR] 1.23, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.12-1.35), black carbon (1.21, 1.11-1.33), ammonium (1.21, 1.10-1.32), nitrate (1.25, 1.14-1.38), organic matter (1.29, 1.18-1.42), sulfate (1.17, 1.07-1.28), and soil particles (1.15, 1.04-1.26) were related to high 10-year ASCVD risk. The overall effect (1.19, 1.11-1.28) of the PM2.5 components was positively associated with 10-year ASCVD risk, and organic matter had the most contribution to this relationship. Female participants were more significantly impacted by PM2.5, black carbon, ammonium, nitrate, organic matter, sulfate, and soil particles compared to others.

CONCLUSION

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 mass, black carbon, ammonium, nitrate, organic matter, sulfate, and soil particles were positively associated with high 10-year ASCVD risk, while sea salt exhibited a protective effect. Moreover, the organic matter might take primary responsibility for the relationship between PM2.5 and 10-year ASCVD risk. Females were more susceptible to the adverse effect.

PM2.5 and its respiratory tract depositions on blood pressure, anxiety, depression and health risk assessment: A mechanistic study based on urinary metabolome

Effects of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and regional respiratory tract depositions on blood pressure (BP), anxiety, depression, health risk and the underlying mechanisms need further investigations. A repeated-measures panel investigation among 40 healthy young adults in Hefei, China was performed to explore the acute impacts of PM2.5 exposure and its deposition doses in 3 regions of respiratory tract over diverse lag times on BP, anxiety, depression, health risk, and the potential mechanisms. We collected PM2.5 concentrations, its deposition doses, BP, the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) score and the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) score. An untargeted metabolomics approach was used to detect significant urine metabolites, and the health risk assessment model was used to evaluate the non-carcinogenic risks associated with PM2.5. We applied linear mixed-effects models to assess the relationships of PM2.5 with the aforementioned health indicators We further evaluate the non-carcinogenic risks associated with PM2.5. We found deposited PM2.5 dose in the head accounted for a large proportion. PM2.5 and its three depositions exposures at a specific lag day was significantly related to increased BP levels and higher SAS and SDS scores. Metabolomics analysis showed significant alterations in urinary metabolites (i.e., glucoses, lipids and amino acids) after PM2.5 exposure, simultaneously accompanied by activation of the cAMP signaling pathway. Health risk assessment presented that the risk values for the residents in Hefei were greater than the lower limits of non-cancer risk guidelines. This real-world investigation suggested that acute PM2.5 and its depositions exposures may increase health risks by elevating BP, inducing anxiety and depression, and altering urinary metabolomic profile via activating the cAMP signaling pathway. And the further health risk assessment indicated that there are potential non-carcinogenic risks of PM2.5 via the inhalation route in this area.

Ozone-oxidized black carbon particles change macrophage fate: Crosstalk between necroptosis and macrophage extracellular traps

The impacts of environmental PM 2.5 on public health have become a major concern all over the world. Many studies have shown that PM 2.5 still poses a threat to public health even at very low levels. Physical or chemical reactions occur between primary particles and other components in the environment, which changes the properties of primary particles. Such newly formed particles with changed properties are called secondary particles. Ozone-oxidized black carbon (oBC) is a key part of PM 2.5 and a representative secondary particle. Macrophages extracellular traps (METs) is a means for macrophages to capture and destroy invading pathogens, thereby exercising innate immunity. Necroptosis is a kind of programmed cell death, which is accompanied by the destruction of membrane integrity, thus inducing inflammatory reaction. However, there is no research on the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and MET after oBC exposure. In our study, AO/EB staining, SYTOX Green staining, fluorescent probe, qPCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence were applied. This experiment found that under normal physiological conditions, when macrophages receive external stimuli (such as pathogens; in our experiment: phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)), they will form METs, capture and kill pathogens, thus exerting innate immune function. However, exposure to oBC can cause necroptosis in macrophages, accompanied by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cytosolic calcium ions, as well as the expression disorder of inflammatory factors and chemokines, and prevent the formation of METs, lose the function of capturing and killing pathogens, and weaken the innate immune function. Notably, inhibition of necroptosis restored the formation of METs, indicating that necroptosis inhibited the formation of METs. This study was the first to explore the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and METs after oBC exposure.

Adverse Effects of Prenatal Exposure to Oxidized Black Carbon Particles on the Reproductive System of Male Mice

Ambient black carbon (BC), a main constituent of atmospheric particulate matter (PM), is a primary particle that is mainly generated by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuel and biomass burning. BC has been identified as a potential health risk via exposure. However, the adverse effects of exposure to BC on the male reproductive system remain unclear. In the present study, we explored the effects of maternal exposure to oxidized black carbon (OBC) during pregnancy on testicular development and steroid synthesis in male offspring. Pregnant mice were exposed to OBC (467 μg/kg BW) or nanopure water (as control) by intratracheal instillation from gestation day (GD) 4 to GD 16.5 (every other day). We examined the testicular histology, daily sperm production, serum testosterone, and mRNA expression of hormone synthesis process-related factors of male offspring at postnatal day (PND) 35 and PND 84. Histological examinations exhibited abnormal seminiferous tubules with degenerative changes and low cellular adhesion in testes of OBC-exposed mice at PND 35 and PND 84. Consistent with the decrease in daily sperm production, the serum testosterone level of male offspring of OBC-exposed mice also decreased significantly. Correspondingly, mRNA expression levels of hormone-synthesis-related genes (i.e., StAR, P450scc, P450c17, and 17β-HSD) were markedly down-regulated in male offspring of PND 35 and PND 84, respectively. In brief, these results suggest that prenatal exposure has detrimental effects on mouse spermatogenesis in adult offspring.

Pectin alleviates the pulmonary inflammatory response induced by PM2.5 from a pig house by modulating intestinal microbiota

This study aimed to investigate whether dietary fiber pectin can alleviate PM_2.5-induced pulmonary inflammation and the potential mechanism. PM_2.5 samples were collected from a nursery pig house. The mice were divided into three groups: the control group, PM_2.5 group and PM_2.5 + pectin group. The mice in the PM_2.5 group were intratracheally instilled with PM_2.5 suspension twice a week for four consecutive weeks, and those in the PM_2.5 + pectin group were subject to the same PM_2.5 exposure, but fed with a basal diet supplemented with 5% pectin. The results showed that body weight and feed intake were not different among the treatments (p > 0.05). However, supplementation with pectin relieved PM_2.5-induced pulmonary inflammation, presenting as slightly restored lung morphology, decreased mRNA expression levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-17 in the lung, decreased MPO content in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BLAF), and even decreased protein levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in the serum (p < 0.05). Dietary pectin altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota, increasing the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and decreasing the ratio of Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes. At the genus level, short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, such as Bacteroides, Anaerotruncus, Prevotella 2, Parabacteroides, Ruminococcus 2 and Butyricimonas, were enriched in the PM_2.5 +pectin group. Accordingly, dietary pectin increased the concentrations of SCFAs, including acetate, propionate, butyrate and valerate, in mice. In conclusion, dietary fermentable fiber pectin can relieve PM_2.5-induced pulmonary inflammation via alteration of intestinal microbiota composition and SCFA production. This study provides a new insight into reducing the health risk associated with PM_2.5 exposure.

Black carbon nanoparticles activate the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and macrophage extracellular traps to change macrophages fate

PM2.5 still poses a threat to public health even at very low levels. Black carbon (BC) is a key component of PM2.5. Macrophage extracellular traps (METs) are a means by which macrophages capture and destroy invading pathogens. Necroptosis is an inflammatory programmed cell death. However, there is no research on the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and METs after BC exposure. In our study, fluorescence labeling, fluorescent probes, qPCR, and immunofluorescence were applied. Our research found that under normal physiological conditions, when macrophages receive external stimuli (in our experiment, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA)), they will form METs, thus exhibiting innate immune function. However, exposure to BC can cause necroptosis in macrophages accompanied by increased levels of ROS and cytosolic calcium ions as well as altered expression of inflammatory factors and chemokines that prevent the formation of METs, and weakening innate immune function. Notably, inhibition of necroptosis restored the formation of METs, indicating that necroptosis inhibits the formation of METs. Our experiment will enrich the understanding of the mechanism of macrophage injury caused by BC exposure, provide a new direction for studying harmful atmospheric particle toxicity, and propose new therapeutic insights for diseases caused by atmospheric particulate matter. This study is the first to explore the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and METs after BC exposure.

1,4-Naphthoquinone-Coated Black Carbon, a Kind of Atmospheric Fine Particulate Matter, Affects Macrophage Fate: New Insights into Crosstalk between Necroptosis and Macrophage Extracellular Traps

1,4-Naphthoquinone-coated BC (1,4 NQ-BC) is an important component of PM_2.5 and a representative secondary particle. However, there is no research on the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and macrophage extracellular traps (METs) after 1,4 NQ-BC exposure. In this study, we treated RAW264.7 cells with 50, 100, and 200 mg/L 1,4 NQ-BC for 24 h, with 10 μM necrostatin-1 for 24 h, and with 2.5 μM phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) for 3 h. Our experiment revealed that under normal physiological conditions, when macrophages receive external stimuli (such as pathogens; in this experiment, PMA), they will form METs and capture and kill pathogens, thus exerting innate immune function. However, exposure to 1,4 NQ-BC can cause necroptosis in macrophages, accompanied by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cytosolic calcium ions, as well as the expression disorder of inflammatory factors and chemokines, prevent the formation of METs, lead to loss of the function of capturing and killing pathogens, and weaken the innate immune function. Notably, inhibition of necroptosis restored the formation of METs, indicating that necroptosis inhibited the formation of METs. Our study was the first to explore the crosstalk mechanism between necroptosis and METs. This experiment will enrich the mechanism of macrophage injury caused by 1,4 NQ-BC exposure.

Ambient air pollution and gestational diabetes mellitus: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the relationship between the composition of particulate matter (PM) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) by a comprehensively review of epidemiological studies.

METHODS

We systematically identified cohort studies related to air pollution and GDM risk before February 8, 2023 from six databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform and Chongqing VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodical databases). We calculated the relative risk (RR) and its 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the overall effect by using a random effects model.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis of 31 eligible cohort studies showed that exposure to PM_2.5, PM₁₀, SO₂, and NO₂ was associated with a significantly increased risk of GDM, especially in preconception and first trimester. Analysis of the components of PM_2.5 found that the risk of GDM was strongly linked to black carbon (BC) and nitrates (NO₃^-). Specifically, BC exposure in the second trimester and NO₃^- exposure in the first trimester elevated the risk of GDM, with the RR of 1.128 (1.032-1.231) and 1.128 (1.032-1.231), respectively. The stratified analysis showed stronger correlations of GDM risk with higher levels of pollutants in Asia, except for PM_2.5 and BC, which suggested that the specific composition of particulate pollutants had a greater effect on the exposure-outcome association than the concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that ambient air pollutant is a critical factor for GDM and further studies on specific particulate matter components should be considered in the future.

Chemical fingerprints and source resolution of atmospheric fine particles in an industrial harbor based on one-year intermittent field sampling data

This study investigated the spatiotemporal variation, chemical characteristics, and source resolution of PM_2.5 in an East Asian seaport adjacent to industrial complex and urban area. Three representative harbor sites were selected to simultaneously sample 24-h PM_2.5 once every 13 days in four seasons. A significant seasonal variation was observed with the highest and the lowest PM_2.5 concentration in February (winter) and May (summer), respectively. High contribution of secondary inorganic aerosols (SIAs) showed that SO₂ and NO_x emitted from neighboring combustion sources burning coal and heavy fuel oil (HFO) were the major precursors forming secondary inorganic PM_2.5. High ratios of V/Ni and V/Cu were observed in summer (June~August) since the prevailing west and southwest winds from outer port carried ship emissions to inter port. The correlation of chemical fingerprints (V, Ni, V/Ni, Zn, nss-SO₄^2-, OC) and the number of ships were high at the Zhung-He Site and moderate at the Qi-Ho Site. The Cl^-, Na⁺, V, Ni, nss-SO₄^2-, OC, and V/Ni of PM_2.5 were co-influenced by ship missions and oceanic spray in the Kaohsiung Harbor. The influences were relatively higher for winds blown from the harbor areas than those blown from the industrial areas. Oppositely, the Fe, Mn, Cr, Cu, Ca, Zn, and Al in PM_2.5 were higher for winds blown from the industrial areas than those from the harbor areas. The CMB receptor modelling resolved that the major sources of PM_2.5 were industrial missions, secondary aerosols, mobile sources, ship emissions, oceanic spray, fugitive dust, biomass burning, and organic carbon. Similar to Busan (South Korea), Brindisi (Italy), Lampedusa (Italy), and Barcelona (Spain), the contributions of ship emissions in the Kaohsiung Harbor were in the range of 7.4-7.8 %. Meanwhile, Kaohsiung Harbor was highly influenced by emissions from industrial areas and urban areas.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ameliorate PM2.5 exposure induced lung injury in mice through remodeling the gut microbiota and modulating the lung metabolism

Short-term or long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is related to increased incidences of respiratory diseases. This study aimed to investigate the influences of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation, lung metabolic profile, and gut microbiota in PM2.5-induced lung injury mice. Mice were divided into four groups (n = 15, per group): two unsupplemented groups, control group and PM2.5 group, and two supplemented groups with ω-3 PUFAs, ω-3 PUFAs group, and ω-3 PUFAs + PM2.5 group. Mice in the supplemented groups were placed on an ω-3 PUFAs-enriched diet (ω-3 PUFAs, 21 g/kg). During the 5th to 6th week of dietary supplementation, mice were exposed to PM2.5 by intra-tracheal instillation. ω-3 PUFAs ameliorate lung histopathological injury, reduce inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, affect lung metabolite profile, and modulate gut microbiota in PM2.5-induced lung injury mice. Thus, supplementary ω-3 PUFAs showed effectiveness in attenuation of PM2.5-induced lung injury, indicating that the interventions exhibited preventive and therapeutic potential.

Identification of differentially expressed genes and pathways in BEAS-2B cells upon long-term exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5) from biomass combustion using bioinformatics analysis

BACKGROUND

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 from burning domestic substances has been linked to an increased risk of lung disease, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. This study is to explore the hub genes and pathways involved in PM2.5 toxicity in human bronchial epithelial BEAS-2B cells.

METHODS

The GSE158954 dataset is downloaded from the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened using the limma package in RStudio (version 4.2.1). In addition, DEGs analysis was performed by Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed, MCODE plug-in and the cytoHubba plug-in in Cytoscape software was used to identify the hub genes. Finally, CytoHubba and DEGs were used to integrate the hub genes, and preliminary validation was performed by comparing the toxicology genomics database (CTD). Differential immune cell infiltration was investigated using the CIBERSORT algorithm.

RESULTS

A total of 135 DEGs were identified, of which 57 were up-regulated and 78 were down-regulated. Functional enrichment analyses in the GO and KEGG indicated the potential involvement of DEGs was mainly enriched in the regulation of endopeptidase activity and influenza A. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis revealed that Chemical Carcinogenesis - DNA adducts were remarkably enriched in PM2.5 groups. 53 nodes and 198 edges composed the PPI network. Besides, 5 direct-acting genes were filtered at the intersection of cytohubba plug-in, MCODE plug-in and CTD database. There is a decreasing trend of dendritic cells resting after BEAS-2B cells long-term exposure to PM2.5.

CONCLUSIONS

The identified DEGs, modules, pathways, and hub genes provide clues and shed light on the potential molecular mechanisms of BEAS-2B cells upon long-term exposure to PM2.5.

Chemokine expression in human 3-dimensional cultured epidermis exposed to PM2.5 collected by cyclonic separation

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure has a risk of inducing several health problems, especially in the respiratory tract. The skin is the largest organ of the human body and is therefore the primary target of PM2.5. In this study, we examined the effects of PM2.5 on the skin using a human 3-dimensional cultured epidermis model. PM2.5 was collected by cyclonic separation in Yokohama, Japan. Global analysis of 34 proteins released from the epidermis revealed that the chemokines, chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1) and interleukin 8 (IL-8), were significantly increased in response to PM2.5 exposure. These chemokines stimulated neutrophil chemotaxis in a C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 2-dependent manner. The oxidative stress and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathways may be involved in the increased expression of CXCL1 and IL-8 in the human epidermis model. Interestingly, in the HaCaT human keratinocyte cell line, PM2.5 did not affect chemokine expression but did induce IL-6 expression, suggesting a different effect of PM2.5 between the epidermis model and HaCaT cells. Overall, PM2.5 could induce the epidermis to release chemokines, followed by neutrophil activation, which might cause an unregulated inflammatory reaction in the skin.

A comparison of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in vivo exposure studies incorporating chemical analysis

The complex, variable mixtures present in fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) have been well established, and associations between chemical constituents and human health are expanding. In the past decade, there has been an increase in PM_2.5 toxicology studies that include chemical analysis of samples. This investigation is a crucial component for identifying the causal constituents for observed adverse health effects following exposure to PM_2.5. In this review, investigations of PM_2.5 that used both in vivo models were explored and chemical analysis with a focus on respiratory, cardiovascular, central nervous system, reproductive, and developmental toxicity was examined to determine if chemical constituents were considered in the interpretation of the toxicity findings. Comparisons between model systems, PM_2.5 characteristics, endpoints, and results were made. A vast majority of studies observed adverse effects in vivo following exposure to PM_2.5. While limited, investigations that explored connections between chemical components and measured endpoints noted significant associations between biological measurements and a variety of PM_2.5 constituents including elements, ions, and organic/elemental carbon, indicating the need for such analysis. Current limitations in available data, including relatively scarce statistical comparisons between collected toxicity and chemical datasets, are provided. Future progress in this field in combination with epidemiologic research examining chemical composition may support regulatory standards of PM_2.5 to protect human health.

Validity of using ambient concentrations as surrogate exposures at the individual level for fine particle and black carbon: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Exposure measurement error is an important source of bias in epidemiological studies. We assessed the validity of employing ambient (outdoor) measurements as proxies of personal exposures at individual levels focusing on fine particles (PM_2.5) and black carbon (BC)/elemental carbon (EC) on a global scale. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis and searched databases (ISI Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE®, Ovid Embase, and Ovid BIOSIS) to retrieve observational studies in English language published from 1 January 2006 until 5 May 2021. Correlation coefficients (r) between paired ambient (outdoor) concentration and personal exposure for PM_2.5 or BC/EC were standardized as effect size. We used random-effects meta-analyses to pool the correlation coefficients and investigated the causes of heterogeneity and publication bias. Furthermore, we employed subgroup and meta-regression analyses to evaluate the modification of pooled estimates by potential mediators. This systematic review identified thirty-two observational studies involving 1744 subjects from ten countries, with 28 studies for PM_2.5 and 11 studies for BC/EC. Personal PM_2.5 exposure is more strongly correlated with ambient (outdoor) concentrations (0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.57-0.68) than personal BC/EC exposure (0.49, 95% CI: 0.38-0.59), with significant differences in ṝ (0.14, 95% CI: 0.03-0.25; p < 0.05). The results demonstrated that the health status of participants was a significant modifier of pooled correlations. In addition, the personal to ambient (P/A) ratio for PM_2.5 and average ambient BC/EC levels were potential effect moderators of the pooled ṝ. The funnel plots and Egger's regression test indicated inevident publication bias. The pooled estimates were robust through sensitivity analyses. The results support the growing consensus that the validity coefficient of proxy measures should be addressed when interpreting results from epidemiological studies to better understand how strong health outcomes are affected by different levels of PM_2.5 and their components.

Integrated proteomic analysis to explore the molecular regulation mechanism of IL-33 mRNA increased by black carbon in the human endothelial cell line EA.hy926

Black carbon (BC) correlates with the occurrence and progression of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that BC could impair vascular endothelial cells, but the underlying mechanisms remain obscure. It is known that IL-33 exerts a significant biological role in cardiovascular disease, but little is known about the molecular regulation of IL-33 expression at present. We first found that BC significantly increased IL-33 mRNA in EA.hy926 cells in a concentration and time-dependent manner, and we conducted this study to explore its underlying mechanism. We identified that BC induced mitochondrial damage and suppressed autophagy function in EA.hy926 cells, as evidenced by elevation of the aspartate aminotransferase (GOT2), reactive oxygen species (ROS) and p62, and the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). However, ROS cannot induce IL-33 mRNA-production in BC-exposed EA.hy926 cells. Further, experiments revealed that BC could promote IL-33 mRNA production through the PI3K/Akt/AP-1 and p38/AP-1 signaling pathways. It is concluded that BC could induce oxidative stress and suppress autophagy function in endothelial cells. This study also provided evidence that the pro-cardiovascular-diseases properties of BC may be due to its ability to stimulate the PI3K/AKT/AP-1 and p38/AP-1 pathway, further activate IL-33 and ultimately result in a local vascular inflammation.

Compilation of a city-scale black carbon emission inventory: Challenges in developing countries based on a case study in Brazil

Black carbon (BC) inventories for cities are scarce, especially in developing countries, despite their importance to tackle climate change and local air pollution. Here, we draw on results from a case study in a Brazilian city to discuss the challenges of compiling a BC inventory for different activity sectors. We included traditionally inventoried sectors, such as industries and on-road transportation, other less reported sectors (food establishments and aviation), and open burning of household solid waste (HSW), typically found in developing countries. We present a machine-learning technique (Random Forest) as a novel approach to obtain HSW burning activity using a set of spatial predictors. The BC inventory was based on PM_2.5 emissions weighted by the fraction of PM_2.5 emitted as BC and developed for the year 2018. We also reported the disaggregated spatial PM_2.5 emissions for the same combustion sources, and documented the databases used for activity data and emission factors (EF). The total estimated BC and PM_2.5 emissions amounted to 57.88 and 234.75 tons, respectively, with on-road vehicle exhaust emissions and industrial combustion as the main BC sources (63 and 22%, respectively). For PM_2.5 emissions, on-road transportation (exhaust and non-exhaust) contributed 48%, followed by industrial combustion (21%) and food establishments (20%). Population density, number of vacant lots, and property tax values were identified as the most important features to predict the HSW fire activity. A comparison with other inventories revealed that the BC emission profile of Londrina is similar to the profile reported for Greater Mexico City, another Latin American city. Thus, the methodology used in this study could be extended to other cities with similar local BC sources. Finally, we highlight that the lack of local activity data, representative EF, and even methodology may undermine the development of reliable BC inventories, and intensive research should be conducted to characterize the emission sources.

Black carbon toxicity dependence on particle coating: Measurements with a novel cell exposure method

Black carbon (BC) is a component of ambient particulate matter which originates from incomplete combustion emissions. BC is regarded as an important short-lived climate forcer, and a significant public health hazard. These two concerns have made BC a focus in aerosol science. Even though, the toxicity of BC particles is well recognized, the mechanism of toxicity for BC as a part of the total gas and particle emission mixture from combustion is still largely unknown and studies concerning it are scarce. In the present study, using a novel thermophoresis-based air-liquid interface (ALI) in vitro exposure system, we studied the toxicity of combustion-generated aerosols containing high levels of BC, diluted to atmospheric levels (1 to 10 μg/m³). Applying multiple different aerosol treatments, we simulated different sources and atmospheric aging processes, and utilizing several toxicological endpoints, we thoroughly examined emission toxicity. Our results revealed that an organic coating on the BC particles increased the toxicity, which was seen as larger genotoxicity and immunosuppression. Furthermore, aging of the aerosol also increased its toxicity. A deeper statistical analysis of the results supported our initial conclusions and additionally revealed that toxicity increased with decreasing particle size. These findings regarding BC toxicity can be applied to support policies and technologies to reduce the most hazardous compositions of BC emissions. Additionally, our study showed that the thermophoretic ALI system is both a suitable and useful tool for toxicological studies of emission aerosols.

The Lung Microbiota Affects Pulmonary Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Induced by PM2.5 Exposure

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) exposure causes respiratory diseases by inducing inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the correlation between the pulmonary microbiota and the progression of pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress caused by PM_2.5 is poorly understood. This study tested the hypothesis that the lung microbiota affects pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress induced by PM_2.5 exposure. Mice were exposed to PM_2.5 intranasally for 12 days. Then, pulmonary microbiota transfer and antibiotic intervention were performed. Histological examinations, biomarker index detection, and transcriptome analyses were conducted. Characterization of the pulmonary microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that its diversity decreased by 75.2% in PM_2.5-exposed mice, with increased abundance of Proteobacteria and decreased abundance of Bacteroidota. The altered composition of the microbiota was significantly correlated with pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress-related indicators. Intranasal transfer of the pulmonary microbiota from PM_2.5-exposed mice affected pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress caused by PM_2.5, as shown by increased proinflammatory cytokine levels and dysregulated oxidative damage-related biomarkers. Antibiotic intervention during PM_2.5 exposure alleviated pulmonary inflammation and oxidative damage in mice. The pulmonary microbiota also showed substantial changes after antibiotic treatment, as reflected by the increased microbiota diversity, decreased abundance of Proteobacteria and increased abundance of Bacteroidota. These results suggest that pulmonary microbial dysbiosis can promote and affect pulmonary inflammation and oxidative stress during PM_2.5 exposure.

Black carbon health impacts in the Indo-Gangetic plain: Exposures, risks, and mitigation

A large discrepancy between simulated and observed black carbon (BC) surface concentrations over the densely populated Indo-Gangetic plain (IGP) has so far limited our ability to assess the magnitude of BC health impacts in terms of population exposure, morbidity, and mortality. We evaluate these impacts using an integrated modeling framework, including successfully predicted BC concentrations. Population exposure to BC is notable, with more than 60 million people identified as living in hotspots of BC concentration (wintertime mean, >20 μg m^-3). The attributable fraction of the total cardiovascular disease mortality (CVM) burden to BC exposures is 62% for the megacity. The semiurban area comprised about 49% of the total BC-attributable CVM burden over the IGP. More than 400,000 lives can potentially be saved from CVM annually by implementing prioritized emission reduction from the combustion of domestic biofuel in the semiurban area, diesel oil in transportation, and coal in thermal power plant and brick kiln industries in megacities.

Acute cardiovascular effects of inhaled ambient particulate matter: Chemical composition-related oxidative stress, endothelin-1, blood pressure, and ST-segment changes in Wistar rats

Short-term increases in particulate matter (PM) are associated with heightened morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular causes. Inhalation of PM is known to increase endothelin (ET)-1 levels. Yet, less is known about particle composition-related changes at the molecular level including the endothelinergic system and relationship with cardiovascular function changes. In this work, adult Wistar male rats were exposed for 4 h by nose-only inhalation to clean air, Ottawa urban particles (EHC-93, 48 mg/m³) and water-leached (EHC-93L, 49 mg/m³) particles, to examine the effect of particle compositional changes on oxidative stress, circulating ETs, blood pressure, and heart electrophysiology. Particle deposition in the respiratory compartment was estimated at 85 μg (25 ng/cm²). Lung cell proliferation was low in both treatment groups, indicating absence of acute injury. Inhalation of EHC-93 caused statistically significant elevations (p < 0.05) of oxidative stress markers, ET-1, ET-3, blood pressure, and a decrease of ST-segment duration in the ECG at 1.5 days post-exposure. Leached particles (EHC-93L) caused rapid but transient elevation (p < 0.05) of oxidative stress, ET-1, ET-2, and ET-3 at earlier time points, with no changes in blood pressure or ST-segment. These results demonstrate that inhalation of urban particles at an internal dose inadequate to cause acute lung injury can induce oxidative stress, enhance vasoactive endothelins, leading to vasopressor response, affecting cardiac electrophysiology in Wistar rats, consistent with the cardiovascular impacts of ambient particles in human populations. Change in particle potency after removal of soluble species, notably cadmium, zinc and polar organics suggests that the toxicodynamics of cardiovascular effects can be modified by physicochemical properties of particles.

Ambient air pollution and cardiovascular diseases: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

The available evidence on the effects of ambient air pollution on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) has increased substantially. In this umbrella review, we summarized the current epidemiological evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses linking ambient air pollution and CVDs, with a focus on geographical differences and vulnerable subpopulations. We performed a search strategy through multiple databases including articles between 2010 and 31 January 2021. We performed a quality assessment and evaluated the strength of evidence. Of the 56 included reviews, the most studied outcomes were stroke (22 reviews), all-cause CVD mortality, and morbidity (19). The strongest evidence was found between higher short- and long-term ambient air pollution exposure and all-cause CVD mortality and morbidity, stroke, blood pressure, and ischemic heart diseases (IHD). Short-term exposures to particulate matter <2.5 μm (PM2.5 ), <10 μm (PM10 ), and nitrogen oxides (NOx ) were consistently associated with increased risks of hypertension and triggering of myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke (fatal and nonfatal). Long-term exposures of PM2.5 were largely associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis, incident MI, hypertension, and incident stroke and stroke mortality. Few reviews evaluated other CVD outcomes including arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation, or heart failure but they generally reported positive statistical associations. Stronger associations were found in Asian countries and vulnerable subpopulations, especially among the elderly, cardiac patients, and people with higher weight status. Consistent with experimental data, this comprehensive umbrella review found strong evidence that higher levels of ambient air pollution increase the risk of CVDs, especially all-cause CVD mortality, stroke, and IHD. These results emphasize the importance of reducing the alarming levels of air pollution across the globe, especially in Asia, and among vulnerable subpopulations.

Incident cardiovascular disease and long-term exposure to source-specific air pollutants in a Swedish cohort

BACKGROUND

Air pollution is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but its role in the development of congestive heart failure (CHF) and the role of different pollution sources in cardiovascular disease remain uncertain.

METHODS

Participants were enrolled in the Malmö Diet and Cancer cohort in 1991-1996 with information on lifestyle and clinical indicators of cardiovascular disease. The cohort participants were followed through registers until 2016. Annual total and local source-specific concentrations of particulate matter less than 10 μm and 2.5 μm (PM₁₀ and PM_2.5), black carbon (BC), and nitrogen oxides (NO_x) from traffic, residential heating, and industry were assigned to each participant's address throughout the study period. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for possible confounders was used to estimate associations between air pollution 1-5 years prior to outcomes of incident CHF, fatal myocardial infarction (MI), major adverse coronary events (MACE), and ischemic stroke.

RESULTS

Air pollution exposure levels (mean annual exposures to PM_2.5 of 11 μg/m³ and NO_x of 26 μg/m³) within the cohort were moderate in terms of environmental standards. After adjusting for confounders, we observed statistically significant associations between NO_x and CHF (hazard ratio [HR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.22) and NO_x and fatal MI (HR 1.10, 95%CI 1.01-1.20) per interquartile range (IQR) of 9.6 μg/m³. In fully adjusted models, the estimates were similar, but the precision worse. In stratified analyses, the associations were stronger in males, ever-smokers, older participants, and those with baseline carotid artery plaques. Locally emitted and traffic-related air pollutants generally showed positive associations with CHF and fatal MI. There were no associations between air pollution and MACE or stroke.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

In an area with low to moderate air pollution exposure, we observed significant associations of long-term residential NO_x with increased risk of incident CHF and fatal MI, but not with coronary events and stroke.

Airborne and Dermal Collection Methods of Gunshot Residue for Toxicity Studies

Gunshot residue (GSR) has potential negative health effects on humans as a result of inhalation and dermal exposure to the chemical and physical characteristics of GSR such as Pb, Sb, Ba, nitrocellulose, nitroglycerine, and particulate size fraction. Filter (size selective) and double-sided tape (non-size selective) samples collected airborne GSR during single and triple firing of a 0.22 caliber revolver. Dermal exposures were considered using hand swabs and de-leading wipes, designed to remove the heavy metals. The samples underwent analysis to investigate physical (morphology, size distribution, zeta potential), chemical (black carbon and element concentrations), and potential to induce oxidative stress (oxidative potential via the dithiothreitol (DTT) assay). All sample types detected Pb concentrations higher than national ambient air standards. The de-leading wipes reduced the metal content on the hands of the shooter for Pb (15.57 ± 12.99 ppb and 3.13 ± 4.95 ppb). Filter samples provided health relevant data for airborne PM2.5 for all of the analysis methods except for GSR morphology. This work identified collection and analysis methods for GSR in an outdoor setting, providing protocols and considerations for future toxicological studies related to inhalation and dermal exposures to particulate GSR. Future studies should investigate the influence of meteorological factors on GSR exposure in an outdoor setting.

From properties to toxicity: Comparing microplastics to other airborne microparticles

Microplastic (MP) debris is considered as a potentially hazardous material. It is omnipresent in our environment, and evidence that MP is also abundant in the atmosphere is increasing. Consequently, the inhalation of these particles is a significant exposure route to humans. Concerns about potential effects of airborne MP on human health are rising. However, currently, there are not enough studies on the putative toxicity of airborne MP to adequately assess its impact on human health. Therefore, we examined potential drivers of airborne MP toxicity. Physicochemical properties like size, shape, ζ-potential, adsorbed molecules and pathogens, and the MP's bio-persistence have been proposed as possible drivers of MP toxicity. Since their role in MP toxicity is largely unknown, we reviewed the literature on toxicologically well-studied non-plastic airborne microparticles (asbestos, silica, soot, wood, cotton, hay). We aimed to link the observed health effects and toxicology of these microparticles to the abovementioned properties. By comparing this information with studies on the effects of airborne MP, we analyzed possible mechanisms of airborne MP toxicity. Thus, we provide a basis for a mechanistic understanding of airborne MP toxicity. This may enable the assessment of risks associated with airborne MP pollution, facilitating effective policymaking and product design.

Intermittent exposure to airborne particulate matter induces subcellular dysfunction and aortic cell damage in BALB/c mice through multi-endpoint assessment at environmentally relevant concentrations

Airborne particulate matter (PM) has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, especially at realistic exposure levels. In this study, both male and female BALB/c mice were employed to assess vascular homeostasis following a standard urban particulate matter, PM SRM1648a, via oropharyngeal aspiration at three environmentally relevant concentrations. The tested indicators included histopathological observation and lipid deposition, as well as redox biology and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, endothelial monolayer, vascular cell apoptosis and subcellular function were assessed to decipher whether episodic PM SRM1648a exposure leads to vascular damage after multiple periods of treatment, including subacute (4 weeks) and subchronic (8 weeks) durations. As a result, PM aspiration caused thickening of airways, leukocytes infiltration and adhesion to alveoli, with the spot of particles engulfed by pulmonary macrophages. Meanwhile, it induced local and systemic oxidative stress and inflammation, but limited pathological changes were captured throughout aortic tissues after either subacute or subchronic treatment. Furthermore, even in the absence of aortic impairment, vascular cell equilibrium has been disturbed by the characteristics of endothelial monolayer disintegration and cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, PM SRM1648a activated molecular markers of ER stress (BIP) and mitochondrial dynamics (DRP1) at both transcriptional and translational levels, which were strongly correlated to ox-inflammation and could serve as early checkpoints of hazardous events. In summary, our data basically indicate that episodic exposure of BALB/c mice to PM SRM1648a exerts limited effects on vascular histopathological alterations, but induces vascular cell apoptosis and subcellular dysfunction, to which local and systemic redox biology and inflammation are probably correlated.

Susceptibility of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to heart rate difference associated with the short-term exposure to metals in ambient fine particles: A panel study in Beijing, China

Susceptibility of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction associated with exposure to metals in ambient fine particles (PM_2.5, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 µm) remains poorly evidenced. Based on the COPDB (COPD in Beijing) panel study, we aimed to compare the associations of heart rate (HR, an indicator of cardiovascular autonomic function) and exposure to metals in PM_2.5 between 53 patients with COPD and 82 healthy controls by using linear mixed-effects models. In all participants, the HR levels were significantly associated with interquartile range increases in the average concentrations of Cr, Zn, and Pb, but the strength of the associations differed by exposure time (from 1.4% for an average 9 days (d) Cr exposure to 3.5% for an average 9 d Zn exposure). HR was positively associated with the average concentrations of PM_2.5 and certain metals only in patients with COPD. Associations between HR and exposure to PM_2.5, K, Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Se in patients with COPD significantly differed from those in health controls. Furthermore, association between HR and Cr exposure was robust in COPD patients. In conclusion, our findings indicate that COPD could exacerbate difference in HR following exposure to metals in PM_2.5.

Respiratory exposure to PM2.5 soluble extract induced chronic lung injury by disturbing the phagocytosis function of macrophage

Exposure to airborne urban particles is a contributing factor for the development of multiple types of respiratory diseases; its pathological role as a cause of lung injury is still unclear. In this study, PM2.5 soluble extract was collected, and its toxicological effect on lung pathological changes was examined. To assess its pathological mechanism, Human Monocyte-Like Cell Line, THP-1, and mouse macrophage, RAW264.7, were used to determine the effects of PM2.5 soluble extract on cell toxicity, phagocytosis, and transcriptome. We found that PM2.5 soluble extract exposure activated NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, then induces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. RNA-seq results showed that the transcription profiles, including 1213 genes, have been changed in responses to PM2.5 exposure. Additionally, PM2.5 led to phagocytic dysfunction, which may exacerbate the cause of lung injury. Exposure to PM2.5 soluble extract triggers the death of respiratory macrophages, impairs its phagocytosis capacity, thus delaying the inflammatory cell clearance in the lung, which results in chronic lung injury.

Salidroside prevents PM2.5-induced BEAS-2B cell apoptosis via SIRT1-dependent regulation of ROS and mitochondrial function

PM2.5 is a harmful air pollutant currently threatening public health. It has been closely linked to increased morbidity of bronchial asthma and lung cancer worldwide. Salidroside (Sal), an active component extracted from Rhodiola rosea, has been reported to ameliorate the progression of asthma. However, there are few studies on the protective effect of salidroside on PM2.5-induced bronchial epithelial cell injury, and the related molecular mechanism is not clear. Here, we aimed to explore the protective effect and related mechanism of Sal on PM2.5 bronchial injury. We chose 50 μg/mL PM2.5 for 24 h as a PM2.5-induced cell damage model. After that BEAS-2B cells were pretreated with 40, 80, 160 µM Sal for 24 h and then exposed to 50 μg/mL PM2.5 for 24 h. We found that Sal pretreatment significantly inhibited the decrease of cell viability induced by PM2.5. Sal was effective in preventing PM2.5-induced apoptotic features, including Ca²⁺ overload, the cleavages of caspase 3, and the increases in levels of caspase 9 and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), ultimately, Sal significantly inhibited PM2.5-induced apoptosis. Sal improved mitochondrial membrane potential, inhibited the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria to cytoplasm. Sal alleviated ROS production, decreased the level of MDA, prevented the reduction of CAT, SOD and GSH-Px and increased the expression of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), HO-1 and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) in cells exposed to PM2.5. Furthermore, Sal improved the decrease of SIRT1 and PGC-1 α expression levels caused by PM2.5. In addition, inhibition of SIRT1 by EX527 (SIRT1 inhibitor) reversed the protective effects of Sal, including the decrease of ROS level, the increase of membrane potential level and the decrease of apoptosis level. Thus, Sal may be regarded as a potential drug to prevent PM2.5-induced apoptosis of bronchial epithelial cells and other diseases with similar pathological mechanisms.

PM2.5 Aggravated OVA-Induced Epithelial Tight Junction Disruption Through Fas Associated via Death Domain-Dependent Apoptosis in Asthmatic Mice

BACKGROUND

Exposure to air pollutants cause exacerbation of asthma, but the experimental evidence and the mechanisms still need to be collected and addressed.

METHODS

Asthma model was constructed by ovalbumin (OVA) combined with or without airborne fine particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) exposure. Lung sections were stained by hematoxylin-eosin staining (H&E) and Masson's trichrome. RNA-seq and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to identify the key pathway. TdT mediated dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) assay, real-time qPCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence and lentivirus transfection were applied for mechanism discovery.

RESULTS

In this study, we found PM2.5 aggravated airway inflammation in OVA-induced asthmatic mice. RNA-seq analysis also showed that epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) was enhanced in OVA-induced mice exposed to PM2.5 compared with that in OVA-induced mice. In the meantime, we observed that apoptosis was significantly increased in asthmatic mice exposed to PM2.5 by using GSEA analysis, which was validated by TUNEL assay. By using bioinformatic analysis, Fas associated via death domain (FADD), a new actor in innate immunity and inflammation, was identified to be related to apoptosis, EMT and tight junction. Furthermore, we found that the transcript and protein levels of tight junction markers, E-cadherin, zonula occludens (ZO)-1 and Occludin, were decreased after PM2.5 exposure in vivo and in vitro by using RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence, with the increased expression of FADD. Moreover, down-regulation of FADD attenuated PM2.5-induced apoptosis and tight junction disruption in human airway epithelial cells.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, we demonstrated that PM2.5 aggravated epithelial tight junction disruption through apoptosis mediated by up-regulation of FADD in OVA-induced model.

Short-Term Cumulative Exposure to Ambient Traffic-Related Black Carbon and Blood Pressure: MMDA Traffic Enforcers' Health Study

Exposure to traffic-related air pollution is linked with acute alterations in blood pressure (BP). We examined the cumulative short-term effect of black carbon (BC) exposure on systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP and assessed effect modification by participant characteristics. SBP and DBP were repeatedly measured on 152 traffic enforcers. Using a linear mixed-effects model with random intercepts, quadratic (QCDL) and cubic (CCDL) constrained distributed lag models were fitted to estimate the cumulative effect of BC concentration on SBP and DBP during the 10 hours (daily exposure) and 7 days (weekly exposure) before the BP measurement. Ambient BC was related to increased BP with QCDL models. An interquartile range change in BC cumulative during the 7 days before the BP measurement was associated with increased BP (1.2% change in mean SBP, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.1 to 2.3; and 0.5% change in mean DBP, 95% CI, −0.8 to 1.7). Moreover, the association between the 10-h cumulative BC exposure and SBP was stronger for female (4.0% change, 95% CI: 2.1–5.9) versus male and for obese (2.9% change, 95% CI: 1.0–4.8) vs. non-obese traffic enforcers. Short-term cumulative exposure to ambient traffic-related BC could bring about cardiovascular diseases through mechanisms involving increased BP.

Declines in heart rate variability associated with short-term PM2.5 exposure were modified by blood pressure control and treatment: A multi-city panel study in China

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) was associated with altered heart rate variability (HRV). However, whether blood pressure (BP) control and angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) treatment modifies the associations was seldom addressed. Therefore, we conducted a 3-phase panel study among 282 hypertensive subjects aged 35-74 years in four cities of China to address this issue. Real-time personal PM_2.5 sampling and 24-h ambulatory electrocardiogram monitoring were performed repeatedly in 3 different seasons. Linear mixed-effects models were fitted overall and by control status of BP and ARB treatment to assess the associations between short-term PM_2.5 exposure and HRV. The average hourly PM_2.5 concentrations (Mean ± SD) ranged from 19.3 ± 18.2 μg/m³ to 99.4 ± 76.9 μg/m³ across study phases and cities. Generally, PM_2.5 exposure was associated with decreased hourly and 24-h HRV. However, these adverse impacts were attenuated among patients with controlled BP (<140/90 mmHg). For each 10 μg/m³ increment in moving average of previous 2 days' (MA2d) PM_2.5 exposure, 24-h SDNN (standard deviation of NN intervals) and rMSSD (root mean square of successive RR interval differences) decreased by 0.89% (95% CI: 0.19%-1.59%) and 2.98% (95% CI: 1.04%-4.89%) among patients with uncontrolled BP (≥140/90 mmHg), whereas no obvious declines were observed among those with controlled BP (P_difference = 0.007 and 0.022, respectively). Furthermore, ARB treatment alleviated or eliminated PM_2.5-associated declines in hourly and 24-h HRV among those with uncontrolled BP. For instance, 24-h SDNN decreased by 1.31% (95% CI: 0.54%-2.07%) with a 10 μg/m³ increment in lag 2 days' PM_2.5 exposure in ARB nonusers, whereas no obvious changes were observed in ARB users (P_difference = 0.021). In conclusion, although PM_2.5 exposure would decrease HRV, better BP control and ARB treatment could attenuate these adverse impacts, which provides supporting evidence for alleviating autonomic dysfunction of hypertension patients living in areas with high-level PM_2.5.

Local- and regional-scale racial and ethnic disparities in air pollution determined by long-term mobile monitoring

Disparity in air pollution exposure arises from variation at multiple spatial scales: along urban-to-rural gradients, between individual cities within a metropolitan region, within individual neighborhoods, and between city blocks. Here, we improve on existing capabilities to systematically compare urban variation at several scales, from hyperlocal (<100 m) to regional (>10 km), and to assess consequences for outdoor air pollution experienced by residents of different races and ethnicities, by creating a set of uniquely extensive and high-resolution observations of spatially variable pollutants: NO, NO2, black carbon (BC), and ultrafine particles (UFP). We conducted full-coverage monitoring of a wide sample of urban and suburban neighborhoods (93 km2 and 450,000 residents) in four counties of the San Francisco Bay Area using Google Street View cars equipped with the Aclima mobile platform. Comparing scales of variation across the sampled population, greater differences arise from localized pollution gradients for BC and NO (pollutants dominated by primary sources) and from regional gradients for UFP and NO2 (pollutants dominated by secondary contributions). Median concentrations of UFP, NO, and NO2 are, for Hispanic and Black populations, 8 to 30% higher than the population average; for White populations, average exposures to these pollutants are 9 to 14% lower than the population average. Systematic racial/ethnic disparities are influenced by regional concentration gradients due to sharp contrasts in demographic composition among cities and urban districts, while within-group extremes arise from local peaks. Our results illustrate how detailed and extensive fine-scale pollution observations can add new insights about differences and disparities in air pollution exposures at the population scale.

Key Characteristics of Cardiovascular Toxicants

BACKGROUND

The concept of chemical agents having properties that confer potential hazard called key characteristics (KCs) was first developed to identify carcinogenic hazards. Identification of KCs of cardiovascular (CV) toxicants could facilitate the systematic assessment of CV hazards and understanding of assay and data gaps associated with current approaches.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to develop a consensus-based synthesis of scientific evidence on the KCs of chemical and nonchemical agents known to cause CV toxicity along with methods to measure them.

METHODS

An expert working group was convened to discuss mechanisms associated with CV toxicity.

RESULTS

The group identified 12 KCs of CV toxicants, defined as exogenous agents that adversely interfere with function of the CV system. The KCs were organized into those primarily affecting cardiac tissue (numbers 1-4 below), the vascular system (5-7), or both (8-12), as follows: 1) impairs regulation of cardiac excitability, 2) impairs cardiac contractility and relaxation, 3) induces cardiomyocyte injury and death, 4) induces proliferation of valve stroma, 5) impacts endothelial and vascular function, 6) alters hemostasis, 7) causes dyslipidemia, 8) impairs mitochondrial function, 9) modifies autonomic nervous system activity, 10) induces oxidative stress, 11) causes inflammation, and 12) alters hormone signaling.

DISCUSSION

These 12 KCs can be used to help identify pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants as CV toxicants, as well as to better understand the mechanistic underpinnings of their toxicity. For example, evidence exists that fine particulate matter [PM ≤2.5μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5)] air pollution, arsenic, anthracycline drugs, and other exogenous chemicals possess one or more of the described KCs. In conclusion, the KCs could be used to identify potential CV toxicants and to define a set of test methods to evaluate CV toxicity in a more comprehensive and standardized manner than current approaches. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP9321.