1
|
Marchand G, Wingert L, Viegas C, Caetano L, Viegas S, Twaruzek M, Lacombe N, Lanoie D, Valois I, Gouin F, Soszczyńska E, Kosicki R, Dias M, Debia M. Assessment of waste workers occupational risk to microbial agents and cytotoxic effects of mixed contaminants present in the air of waste truck cabin and ventilation filters. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2024; 74:145-162. [PMID: 38166349 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2023.2299424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Workers in the waste-processing industry are potentially exposed to high concentrations of biological contaminants, leading to respiratory and digestive problems and skin irritations. However, few data on the exposure of waste collection truck (WCT) drivers are available. The goal was to document the microbial risk of the waste collection truck (WCT) workers while in the vehicle cab. Long-period sampling using the truck air filters (CAF) and short time ambient air sampling in the cab were used. The potential release of microbial particles from CAFs was also investigated since it could contribute to the microbial load of the cabin air. A combination of analytical methods also helped assess the complex mixture of the biological agents. Aspergillus sections Fumigati and Flavi, E. coli, Enterobacter spp. and Legionella spp. were detected in the CAF of trucks collecting three types of waste. The highest levels of bacteria and fungi were found in the CAF from organic WCT. The highest endotoxin concentrations in CAF were 300 EU/cm2. Most of the CAF showed cytotoxic effects on both lung cells and hepatocytes. Only one mycotoxin was detected in a CAF. The maximal concentrations in the ambient WCT air varied according to the type of waste collected. The highest proportion (84%) of the air samples without cytotoxic effects on the lungs cells was for the recyclable material WCTs. The results revealed the potential microbial risk to workers from a complex mixture of bio-contaminants in the cabs of vehicles collecting all types of waste. The sustained cytotoxic effect indicates the potential adverse health-related impact of mixed contaminants (biological and non-biological) for the workers. Overall, this study highlights the benefits of using complementary sampling strategy and combined analytical methods for a the assessment of the microbial risk in work environments and the need to implement protective measures for the workers.Implications: Exposure to microbial agents is a well-known occupational hazard in the waste management sector. No previous study had evaluated the cytotoxicity of ambient air and ventilation filters to document worker exposure to a combination of contaminants during waste collection. This research confirms the usefulness of ventilation filters for long-term characterization of exposure to infectious agents, azole-resistant fungi, coliform bacteria and mycotoxin. Overall, this study highlights the importance of using several sampling and analysis methods for a comprehensive assessment of microbial risk in work environments, as well as the need to implement appropriate protective measures for collection workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve Marchand
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Loïc Wingert
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Carla Viegas
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, In-stituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Liliana Caetano
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, In-stituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed. ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Comprehensive Health Research Center, CHRC, NOVA University Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twaruzek
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Nancy Lacombe
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Delphine Lanoie
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Isabelle Valois
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Francois Gouin
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail, Montreal, Canada
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, In-stituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed. ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maximilien Debia
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gołofit-Szymczak M, Wójcik-Fatla A, Stobnicka-Kupiec A, Górny RL. Filters of automobile air conditioning systems as in-car source of exposure to infections and toxic moulds. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:108188-108200. [PMID: 37749467 PMCID: PMC10611836 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The main component of an air conditioning system is air filters. Over time, the filters of an air conditioning system in cars can turn into sources of emission of microbiological hazards. The aim of this study was to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the presence of infectious and toxic fungi in the AC filters in passenger cars. The studied non-woven filters were removed from passenger cars during the "winter"/"summer" seasons. The taxonomic identification of the fungi isolated from the filters was performed using both the culture-based and molecular methods. RT-PCR was applied to assess the presence of gene fragments regulating aflatoxin biosynthesis in the isolates obtained from fungal cultures. The average fungal concentrations in the filter samples collected during the summer/winter season were 5.4 × 104 cfu/m2 and 2.4 × 104 cfu/m2, respectively. Most of the filter samples, collected in both the studied seasons, revealed the presence of Aspergillus species including A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. terreus and/or A. flavus. The recorded levels of fungal contamination of AC filters in passenger cars indicate the necessity for more frequent filter replacement in this type of vehicle. Occupational exposure to moulds and the resulting health problems that may be experienced by professional drivers should be properly recognised in order to undertake effective preventive measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Gołofit-Szymczak
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Angelina Wójcik-Fatla
- Department of Health Biohazards and Parasitology, Institute of Rural Health, Lublin, Poland
| | - Agata Stobnicka-Kupiec
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał L Górny
- Department of Chemical, Aerosol and Biological Hazards, Central Institute for Labour Protection-National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Viegas C, Cervantes R, Dias M, Gomes B, Pena P, Carolino E, Twarużek M, Kosicki R, Soszczyńska E, Viegas S, Caetano LA, Pinheiro AC. Unveiling the Occupational Exposure to Microbial Contamination in Conservation–Restoration Settings. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081595. [PMID: 36014012 PMCID: PMC9415782 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Assuring a proper environment for the fulfillment of professional activities is one of the Sustainable Development Goals and is contemplated in the One Health approach assumed by the World Health Organization. This particular study is applied to an often neglected sector of our society—the conservators/restorers—despite the many health issues reported by these professionals. Three different specialties (textiles, paintings and wood sculpture) and locations were selected for evaluation by placement of electrostatic dust cloths. After treatment of the samples, bacterial and fungal contamination were assessed, as well as mycotoxin determination, the presence of azole-resistant strains and cytotoxicity of the microorganisms encountered. Bacteria were only present in one of medias used and showed relatively low numbers. The highest level of contamination by fungi was identified in one of the textiles settings. The textile area also showed the highest variability for fungi. Aspergillus sp. are one indicator of possible environmental issues, and A. sections Fumigati and Circumdati were particularly relevant in two of the settings and identified in all of them. No mycotoxins were detected and the large majority of the fungi identified were non-cytotoxic. Overall, these can be considered low-contaminated environments but attention should be given to the Aspergillus sp. contamination. Additional studies are needed not only to make these results more robust, but also to test if the environmental sampling alone is the best approach in a setting where there is very little movement and dust displacement and where professionals are in very close proximity to the artefacts being treated, which may suggest the existence of a micro-atmosphere worth evaluating and comparing to the obtained results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1099-085 Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Renata Cervantes
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1099-085 Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Bianca Gomes
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Pena
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
- Public Health Research Centre, NOVA National School of Public Health, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1099-085 Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde de Lisboa, Instituto Politgy Research Center, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.uLisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Catarina Pinheiro
- HERCULES Laboratory—Cultural Heritage Protection Studies, University of Evora, Palácio do Vimioso, Largo Marquês de Marialva, 8, 7000-809 Evora, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Viegas C, Pena P, Dias M, Gomes B, Cervantes R, Carolino E, Twarużek M, Soszczyńska E, Kosicki R, Caetano LA, Viegas S. Microbial contamination in waste collection: Unveiling this Portuguese occupational exposure scenario. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 314:115086. [PMID: 35483278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies anticipated that microorganisms and their metabolites in waste will increase as a consequence of a decreased collection frequency and due to differences in what kind of waste is bagged before collection leading to an increased exposure of workers handling the waste. This study aim was to investigate the microbial contamination present in the waste collection trucks (WCT) and in the support facilities (waste collection station - WCS). It was applied a multi-approach protocol using active (air sampling by impingement and impaction) and passive (surface swabs, electrostatic dust cloths and settled dust) sampling methods. The screening of azole-resistance, the investigation of mycotoxins and the assessment of the elicited biological responses in vitro were also carried out aiming recognizing the possible health effects of waste collection drivers. SARS-CoV-2 detection was also performed. In WCS only air samples had contamination in all the four sampling sites (canteen, operational removal core, operational removal center, and administrative service). Among all the analyzed matrices from the WCT a higher percentage of total bacterial counts and Gram-was detected in swabs (66.93%; 99.36%). In WCS the most common species were Penicillium sp. (43.98%) and Cladosporium sp. (24.68%), while on WCT Aspergillus sp. (4.18%) was also one of the most found. In the azole resistance screening Aspergillus genera was not observed in the azole-supplemented media. SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in any of the environmental samples collected, but Aspergillus section Fumigati was detected in 5 samples. Mycotoxins were not detected in EDC from WCS, while in WCT they were detected in filters (N = 1) and in settled dust samples (N = 16). In conclusion, our study reveals that a comprehensive sampling approach using active and passive sampling (e.g. settled dust sampling for a representative mycotoxin evaluation) and combined analytic methods (i.e., culture-based and molecular) is an important asset in microbial exposure assessments. Concerning the waste collection exposure scenario, the results of this study unveiled a complex exposure, particularly to fungi and their metabolites. Aspergillus section Fumigati highlight the significance of targeting this section in the waste management industry as an indicator of occupational health risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Pedro Pena
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| | - Bianca Gomes
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Renata Cervantes
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Ewelina Soszczyńska
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC - Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL - Escola Superior de Tecnologia e Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Compendium of analytical methods for sampling, characterization and quantification of bioaerosols. ADV ECOL RES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.aecr.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
6
|
Sánchez Espinosa KC, Rojas Flores TI, Davydenko SR, Venero Fernández SJ, Almaguer M. Fungal populations in the bedroom dust of children in Havana, Cuba, and its relationship with environmental conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:53010-53020. [PMID: 34021890 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14231-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The study of the fungal community composition in house dust is useful to assess the accumulative exposure to fungi in indoor environments. The objective of this research was to characterize the fungal diversity of house dust and its association with the environmental conditions of bedrooms. For this, the dust was collected from 41 bedrooms of children between the ages of 8 and 9 with a family history of asthma, residents of Havana, Cuba. The fungal content of each sample was determined by two methods: plate culture with malt extract agar and by direct microscopy. An ecological analysis was carried out from the fungal diversity detected. To describe the factors associated with the fungi detected, bivariate logistic regression was used. Through direct microscopy, between 10 and 2311 fragments of hyphae and spores corresponding mainly to Cladosporium, Coprinus, Curvularia, Aspergillus/Penicillium, Xylariaceae, and Periconia were identified. Through the culture, 0-208 CFU were quantified, where Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Penicillium predominated. The culturability evidenced the differences between the quantification determined by both methods. A positive relationship was found between the type of cleaning of the furniture, the presence of trees in front of the bedroom, indoor relative humidity, indoor temperature, the presence of air conditioning, and natural ventilation with specific spore types and genera. The use of two different identification methods allowed to detect a greater fungal diversity in the residences evaluated. Monitoring the exposure to these fungal allergens in childhood can help to prevent sensitization in the allergic child, the development of asthma, and other respiratory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenia C Sánchez Espinosa
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 n. 455 e/I & J, Vedado, 10400, Havana, Cuba
| | - Teresa I Rojas Flores
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 n. 455 e/I & J, Vedado, 10400, Havana, Cuba
| | - Sonia Rodríguez Davydenko
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 n. 455 e/I & J, Vedado, 10400, Havana, Cuba
| | - Silvia J Venero Fernández
- National Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology, Infanta n. 1158 e/Llinás & Clavel, Cerro, 10300, Havana, Cuba
| | - Michel Almaguer
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, 25 n. 455 e/I & J, Vedado, 10400, Havana, Cuba.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Viegas C, Sousa P, Dias M, Caetano LA, Ribeiro E, Carolino E, Twarużek M, Kosicki R, Viegas S. Bioburden contamination and Staphylococcus aureus colonization associated with firefighter's ambulances. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 197:111125. [PMID: 33895113 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Ambulance vehicles are an essential part of emergency clinical services. Bioburden control in ambulances, through cleaning and disinfection, is crucial to minimize hospital-acquired infections, cross contamination and exposure of patients and ambulances' crew. In Portugal, firefighter crews are responsible, besides fire extinction, for first aid and urgent pre-hospital treatment. This study assessed the bioburden in Portuguese firefighters' ambulances with a multi-approach protocol using active and passive sampling methods. Fungal resistance profile and mycotoxins detection in ambulances' ambient, and S. aureus (SA) prevalence and resistance profile in ambulances' ambient and colonization in workers were also investigated. Toxigenic fungi with clinical relevance, namely Aspergillus section Fumigati, were found on ambulance's air in the hazardous dimension range. Interestingly, surface contamination was higher after cleaning in several sampling sites. Prevalence of S. aureus was 3% in environmental samples, of which 2% were methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and 1% methicillin-resistant (MRSA). About 2.07 fungal species were able to grow in at least one azole, ranging from one (44% samples) to five (6% samples) species in each azole. Mycotoxins were detected in mops and electrostatic dust cloths. Colonization by S. aureus in the firefighter crew was observed with a high associated prevalence, namely 48%, with a 24% prevalence of MSSA (8/33) and 21% of MRSA (7/33). Additional studies are needed to determine the potential risk of infection transmission between different vehicle fleets and under varying conditions of use. This will strengthen the paramedic sector's mission to save lives without putting their own health and safety at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Pedro Sousa
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Edna Ribeiro
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Chodkiewicza 30, 85-064, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Viegas C, Almeida B, Monteiro A, Paciência I, Rufo JC, Carolino E, Quintal-Gomes A, Twarużek M, Kosicki R, Marchand G, Aranha Caetano L, Viegas S. Settled dust assessment in clinical environment: useful for the evaluation of a wider bioburden spectrum. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:160-178. [PMID: 31240954 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1634799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The collection and analysis of settled dust samples from indoor environments has become one of several environmental sampling methods used to assess bioburden indoors. The aim of the study was to characterize the bioburden in vacuumed settled dust from 10 Primary Health Care Centers by culture based and molecular methods. Results for bacterial load ranged from 1 to 12 CFU.g-1 of dust and Gram-negative bacteria ranged between 1 to 344 CFU.g-1 of dust. Fungal load ranged from 0 CFU.g-1 of dust to uncountable. Aspergillus section Fumigati was detected in 4 sampling sites where culture base-methods could not identify this section. Mucorales (Rhizopus sp.) was observed on 1 mg/L voriconazole. Three out of 10 settled dust samples were contaminated by mycotoxins. Settled dust sampling coupled with air sampling in a routine way might provide useful information about bioburden exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Monteiro
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
- Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Paciência
- Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto , Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciência e Inovação em Engenharia Mecânica e Engenharia Industrial , Porto, Portugal
| | - João Cavaleiro Rufo
- Portugal & Centro Hospitalar São João, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto , Porto, Portugal
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto , Porto, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anita Quintal-Gomes
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon Institute of Molecular Medicine , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Experimental Biology , Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Kazimierz Wielki University, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Experimental Biology , Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Geneviéve Marchand
- Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et sécurité du travail , Montréal, Canada
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon , Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa , Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Viegas C, Caetano LA, Viegas S. Occupational exposure to Aspergillus section Fumigati: Tackling the knowledge gap in Portugal. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 194:110674. [PMID: 33440201 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Aspergillus section Fumigati is one of the sections of the Aspergillus genus most often associated with respiratory symptoms. The azole-resistant clinical isolates in this section have been widely described worldwide. More recently, the environmental origin of azole resistance has been correlated with the development of fungal diseases and therapeutic failure. This paper presents a review of several studies performed in Portuguese occupational environments focusing on occupational exposure to this section and give guidance to exposure assessors and industrial hygienists to ensure an accurate exposure assessment. Future studies should tackle the limitations concerning the assessment of occupational exposure to the Fumigati section, in order to allow the implementation of adequate risk management measures. In the light of the results of previous studies, the following approach is proposed to ensure an accurate exposure assessment: a) a combination of active and passive sampling methods appropriate to each occupational environment; b) the use, in parallel, of culture-based methods and molecular tools to overcome the limitations of each method; c) evaluation of the mycobiota azole resistance profile; and d) consider the possible simultaneous presence of mycotoxins produced by this section when assessing workers occupational exposure. In sum, preventing the development of fungal strains resistant to azoles will only be achieved with a holistic approach. An adequate "One Health approach" can contribute positively to concerted actions in different sectors, by reducing the use of fungicides through the introduction of crops and agricultural practices that prevent fungal colonization, and by promoting the rational use of antifungal drugs in human and animal health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Viegas C, Dias M, Monteiro A, Faria T, Lage J, Carolino E, Caetano LA, Gomes AQ, Almeida SM, Verde SC, Belo J, Canha N. Bioburden in sleeping environments from Portuguese dwellings. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 273:116417. [PMID: 33465652 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A wider characterization of indoor air quality during sleep is still lacking in the literature. This study intends to assess bioburden before and after sleeping periods in Portuguese dwellings through active methods (air sampling) coupled with passive methods, such as electrostatic dust cloths (EDC); and investigate associations between before and after sleeping and bioburden. In addition, and driven by the lack of information regarding fungi azole-resistance in Portuguese dwellings, a screening with supplemented media was also performed. The most prevalent genera of airborne bacteria identified in the indoor air of the bedrooms were Micrococcus (41%), Staphylococcus (15%) and Neisseria (9%). The major indoor bacterial species isolated in all ten studied bedrooms were Micrococcus luteus (30%), Staphylococcus aureus (13%) and Micrococcus varians (11%). Our results highlight that our bodies are the source of the majority of the bacteria found in the indoor air of our homes. Regarding air fungal contamination, Chrysosporium spp. presented the highest prevalence both in after the sleeping period (40.8%) and before the sleeping period (28.8%) followed by Penicillium spp. (23.47% morning; 23.6% night) and Chrysonilia spp. (12.4% morning; 20.3% night). Several Aspergillus sections were identified in air and EDC samples. However, none of the fungal species/strains (Aspergillus sections Fumigati, Flavi, Nidulantes and Circumdati) were amplified by qPCR in the analyzed EDC. The correlations observed suggest reduced susceptibility to antifungal drugs of some fungal species found in sleeping environments. Toxigenic fungal species and indicators of harmful fungal contamination were observed in sleeping environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal; NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de, Lisboa, Portugal; Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), Portugal.
| | - Marta Dias
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Monteiro
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tiago Faria
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066, Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| | - Joana Lage
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066, Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anita Quintal Gomes
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal; University of Lisbon Institute of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Susana Marta Almeida
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066, Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| | - Sandra Cabo Verde
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066, Bobadela-LRS, Portugal
| | - Joana Belo
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de, Lisboa, Portugal; Integrated Pathophysiological Mechanisms Research Group (CEDOC) - NMS-UNL, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Nuno Canha
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada Nacional 10, 2695-066, Bobadela-LRS, Portugal; Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, Department of Environment and Planning, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Viegas S, Viegas C, Martins C, Assunção R. Occupational Exposure to Mycotoxins-Different Sampling Strategies Telling a Common Story Regarding Occupational Studies Performed in Portugal (2012-2020). Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:E513. [PMID: 32796626 PMCID: PMC7472215 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12080513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In occupational settings where exposure to organic dust occurs (e.g., intensive animal production, waste management, farming and many others) workers can also be exposed to mycotoxins. However, recognizing exposure to mycotoxins in workplace environments does not happen commonly and, consequently, remains as a not identified occupational risk factor. In the last decade, work developed in different occupational settings, using different sampling approaches reported that occupational exposure to mycotoxins occurs and it's of upmost importance to be seen as an occupational concern that needs to be tackled. This paper intends to discuss the several possibilities available for assessing and characterizing the occupational exposure to mycotoxins through the description of the advantages and limitations of the different sampling strategies. Overviewing the approaches and the main achievements used in several field campaigns developed in Portugal, the knowledge obtained will be used to support the identification of the main aspects to consider when designing new occupational studies. The need for additional research work will also be discussed where new directions to follow will be debated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Viegas
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.V.); (C.M.); (R.A.)
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Viegas
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.V.); (C.M.); (R.A.)
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
- H&TRC—Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL—Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Martins
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.V.); (C.M.); (R.A.)
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
- Food and Nutrition Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal
- CESAM, Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Assunção
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal; (C.V.); (C.M.); (R.A.)
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), NOVA Medical School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1169-056 Lisboa, Portugal
- Food and Nutrition Department, National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge, 1600-560 Lisboa, Portugal
- CESAM, Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Viegas C, Fleming GTA, Kadir A, Almeida B, Caetano LA, Quintal Gomes A, Twarużek M, Kosicki R, Viegas S, Coggins AM. Occupational Exposures to Organic Dust in Irish Bakeries and a Pizzeria Restaurant. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E118. [PMID: 31952269 PMCID: PMC7022993 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8010118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, occupational exposure to flour dust has been linked to a range of respiratory diseases, including occupational asthma, thought to result from exposure to fungi present in the flour. Antifungal resistance is of increasing prevalence in clinical settings, and the role of occupational and environmental exposures, particularly for specific fungal species, is of concern. Occupational exposure to flour dust can occur in a range of occupational settings, however, few studies have focused on restaurant workers. The objective of this study was to measure occupational exposure to flour and microbial contamination, including azole resistance screening, in two small commercial bakeries and in a pizzeria. Personal full shift inhalable dust measurements were collected from workers, and were analyzed for inhalable dust and fungi, bacteria, azole resistance, and mycotoxins. Samples of settled dust were collected, and electrostatic dust cloths (EDC) were deployed and analyzed for microbial contamination, including azole resistance screening, and mycotoxins. Geometric mean exposures of 6.5 mg m-³ were calculated for inhalable dust, however, exposures of up to 18.30 mg m-³ were measured-70% of personal exposure measurements exceeded the occupational exposure limit for flour dust of 1.0 mg m-³. The air and EDC fungal counts were similar to those reported in previous studies for similar occupational environments. The fungi were dominated by Penicillium genera, however Aspergillus genera, including Fumigati and Flavi sections, were observed using culture-based methods, and the Fumigati section was also observed by molecular tools. Both Aspergillus sections were identified on the azole resistance screening. Mycotoxins were also detected in the settled dust samples, dominated by deoxynivalenol (DON). The role of environmental exposure in both the development of antimicrobial resistance and the total mycotoxin body burden is a growing concern; therefore, the presence of azole-resistant fungi and mycotoxin contamination, although low in magnitude, is of concern and warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (A.Q.G.)
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), 1150-090 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Gerard T. A. Fleming
- School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, H91 CF50 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Abdul Kadir
- School of Physics and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, H91 CF50 Galway, Ireland;
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (A.Q.G.)
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (A.Q.G.)
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anita Quintal Gomes
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (A.Q.G.)
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Magdalena Twarużek
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, Chodkiewicza 30, 85–064 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.T.); (R.K.)
| | - Robert Kosicki
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kazimierz Wielki University, Chodkiewicza 30, 85–064 Bydgoszcz, Poland; (M.T.); (R.K.)
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC-Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL-Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, 1990-096 Lisbon, Portugal; (B.A.); (L.A.C.); (A.Q.G.)
- NOVA National School of Public Health, Public Health Research Centre, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 1600-560 Lisbon, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center (CHRC), 1150-090 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ann Marie Coggins
- School of Physics and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, H91 CF50 Galway, Ireland;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mainelis G. Bioaerosol Sampling: Classical Approaches, Advances, and Perspectives. AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR AEROSOL RESEARCH 2020; 54:496-519. [PMID: 35923417 PMCID: PMC9344602 DOI: 10.1080/02786826.2019.1671950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioaerosol sampling is an essential and integral part of any bioaerosol investigation. Since bioaerosols are very diverse in terms of their sizes, species, biological properties, and requirements for their detection and quantification, bioaerosol sampling is an active, yet challenging research area. This paper was inspired by the discussions during the 2018 International Aerosol Conference (IAC) (St. Louis, MO) regarding the need to summarize the current state of the art in bioaerosol research, including bioaerosol sampling, and the need to develop a more standardized set of guidelines for protocols used in bioaerosol research. The manuscript is a combination of literature review and perspectives: it discusses the main bioaerosol sampling techniques and then overviews the latest technical developments in each area; the overview is followed by the discussion of the emerging trends and developments in the field, including personal sampling, application of passive samplers, and advances toward improving bioaerosol detection limits as well as the emerging challenges such as collection of viruses and collection of unbiased samples for bioaerosol sequencing. The paper also discusses some of the practical aspects of bioaerosol sampling with particular focus on sampling aspects that could lead to bioaerosol determination bias. The manuscript concludes by suggesting several goals for bioaerosol sampling and development community to work towards and describes some of the grand bioaerosol challenges discussed at the IAC 2018.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gediminas Mainelis
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 14 College Farm Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Viegas C, Almeida B, Gomes AQ, Carolino E, Caetano LA. Aspergillus spp. prevalence in Primary Health Care Centres: Assessment by a novel multi-approach sampling protocol. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 175:133-141. [PMID: 31121528 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to Aspergillus conidia may cause adverse effects on human health; however, no specific recommendations for routine assessments of Aspergillus in the clinical environment have been suggested so far. This study intended to determine the prevalence of Aspergillus in the clinical environment, focusing on ten Primary Health Care Centres (PHCC) through a novel multi-approach sampling protocol. Air and passive sampling, culture-based methods and a probe-based real-time assay for the detection of four clinically relevant Aspergillus sections were performed. Aspergillus spp. was observed in all PHCC, with highest prevalence on floor surface swabs (n=81) (18% on MEA; 6.94% on DG18). Regarding air samples (n=81), highest Aspergillus counts were found in the waiting room (94% MEA; 18% DG18), where Nigri was the most prevalent Aspergillus section. The use of a multi-approach sampling protocol to assess Aspergillus burden in the analysed PHCC has greatly contributed to risk characterization, highlighting the need to implement corrective measures in order to avoid fungal presence in those settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Beatriz Almeida
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Anita Quintal Gomes
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; University of PortugalLisbon - Institute of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Elisabete Carolino
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Portugal; Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Caetano LA, Faria T, Springer J, Loeffler J, Viegas C. Antifungal-resistant Mucorales in different indoor environments. Mycology 2019; 10:75-83. [PMID: 31069121 PMCID: PMC6493325 DOI: 10.1080/21501203.2018.1551251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper sought to address the prevalence of Mucorales in different indoor environments in Portugal. Environmental samples (183 in total) were collected at dwellings (n = 79) and workplaces (bakeries, swine farms, taxis, waste-sorting plants) (n = 93) by passive sampling using electrostatic dust collector (EDC), air-conditioning filters, litter, and/or raw materials. Samples were inoculated onto non-selective MEA and DG18 media and were screened for antifungal drug-resistance in azole-supplemented agar Sabouraud media. A probe-based Mucorales-specific real-time PCR assay (Muc18S) was used to detect Mucorales in complement to conventional culture-based methods. Mucorales order was found as more prevalent in air-conditioning filters from waste-sorting fork lifters (35.7%). Amongst Mucorales isolates able to grow in azole-supplemented media, 16 isolates of Mucor sp., Rhizopus sp. or Rhizomucor sp. were not susceptible to 1 mg/L voriconazole, and four isolates of Mucor sp. or Rhizopus sp. were not susceptible to 4 mg/L itraconazole. In conclusion, combination of the culture-based and molecular methods proved to be reliable for Mucorales order identification in complex environmental samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Aranha Caetano
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Tiago Faria
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Jan Springer
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Juergen Loeffler
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik II, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sabino R, Veríssimo C, Viegas C, Viegas S, Brandão J, Alves-Correia M, Borrego LM, Clemons KV, Stevens DA, Richardson M. The role of occupational Aspergillus exposure in the development of diseases. Med Mycol 2019; 57:S196-S205. [PMID: 30816970 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myy090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aspergillus spp. have a high nutritional versatility and good growth on a large variety of construction materials. They also colonize soil or food, but decaying vegetation is their primary ecological niche. Therefore, exposure to fungi may occur at home, during hospitalization, during specific leisure activities, or at the workplace. The development of Aspergillus infections depends on the interplay between host susceptibility and the organism. Environments with high counts of fungal elements (conidia, hyphal fragments and others), high levels of bioarerosols, and elevated concentrations of mycotoxins or other volatile organic compounds should be considered as potential hazards, since they may present a risk to the exposed person. Rural tasks as well as work related to wood and food industries, poultries, swineries, waste handling plants, and other occupational environments involving contaminated organic material are among the ones posing higher respiratory risks to the workers. This paper presents a review of several studies related to occupational and indoor exposure to Aspergillus, potential health effects related to that exposure, and associated exposure assessment procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Sabino
- Nacional Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge - URSZ- Infectious Diseases Department, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa
| | - Cristina Veríssimo
- Nacional Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge - URSZ- Infectious Diseases Department, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carla Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa.,Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa
| | - Susana Viegas
- H&TRC- Health & Technology Research Center, ESTeSL- Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa.,Centro de Investigação em Saúde Pública, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa
| | - João Brandão
- Nacional Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge - Department of Environmental Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Luís-Miguel Borrego
- Allergy Unit, CUF Descobertas Hospital, Lisbon.,The Chronic Diseases Research Center, CEDOC, NOVA Medical School / Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Karl V Clemons
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States.,California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, California, United States
| | - David A Stevens
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States.,California Institute for Medical Research, San Jose, California, United States
| | - Malcolm Richardson
- Mycology Reference Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.,Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|