1
|
Guo SE, Ratner PA, Tseng SC, Lin CM, Chi MC, Lee CW, Yu YC. Exposure to incense burning, biomarkers, and the physical health of temple workers in Taiwan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:101804-101816. [PMID: 37659022 PMCID: PMC10542283 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29420-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Incense burning releases heavy particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), known to have adverse effects on human health. Long-term exposure to PM and NO2 increases inflammatory cytokine levels and can induce respiratory diseases. This study examined the association between incense burning exposure and the health status, especially inflammatory biomarkers, of temple workers and volunteers in Taiwan. The longitudinal observational study compared adult temple workers and volunteers, with long-term incense burning exposure, to residents from outpatient clinics in the Chiayi area. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and serum and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) cytokines were assessed. Nonparametric Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare cytokine levels of the exposure and control groups during the cold and hot weather seasons. FEV1 was significantly more diminished in the exposed group than in the control group during the cold season. Exposure status was associated with greater hot-cold seasonal differences in serum interleukins (IL)-1β (regression coefficient (B) = 6.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.0 to 8.3, p < .001), IL17-A (B = 2.4, 95% CI = 0.3 to 4.5, p = .03), and plasminogen activator inhibitor [PAI]-1 (B = 5.4, 95% CI = 1.5 to 9.3, p = .009). After adjusting for confounders, the groups' serum levels of IL-1β, IL-17A, and PAI-1 significantly differed. EBC cytokines did not show significant differences. Elevated levels of IL-1β, IL17-A, and PAI-1 have been associated with various autoinflammatory syndromes and diseases. Given the cultural significance of incense burning, culturally sensitive interventions, including education, policy development, and program implementation, are crucial to protect individuals' health, especially temple workers, from the adverse effects of exposure, addressing the manufacture, importation, and sale of incense.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su-Er Guo
- Department of Nursing and Graduate Institute of Nursing, College of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology (CGUST), Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan.
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, CGUST, Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan.
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH) Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 613, Taiwan.
- Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City, 24301, Taiwan.
| | - Pamela A Ratner
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 2B5, Canada
| | - Sung-Chih Tseng
- Family Medicine Department, CGMH Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 61363, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Mo Lin
- Department of Nursing and Graduate Institute of Nursing, College of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology (CGUST), Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, CGMH Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 61363, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University (CGU), Taoyuan City, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Miao-Ching Chi
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, CGUST, Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, CGMH Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 61363, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Care, CGUST, Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan
| | - Chiang-Wen Lee
- Department of Nursing and Graduate Institute of Nursing, College of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology (CGUST), Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, CGUST, Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH) Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 613, Taiwan
- Division of Basic Medical Sciences, CGMH Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 61363, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, CGMH Chiayi Branch, Chiayi County, 61363, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, CGU, Taoyuan City, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chun Yu
- Department of Nursing and Graduate Institute of Nursing, College of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology (CGUST), Chiayi County, 613016, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yadav VK, Yadav KK, Alam J, Cabral-Pinto MM, Gnanamoorthy G, Alhoshan M, Kamyab H, Hamid AA, Ali FAA, Shukla AK. Transformation of hazardous sacred incense sticks ash waste into less toxic product by sequential approach prior to their disposal into the water bodies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:71766-71778. [PMID: 34523099 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15009-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Incense sticks ash is one of the most unexplored by-products generated at religious places and houses obtained after the combustion of incense sticks. Every year, tonnes of incense sticks ash is produced at religious places in India which are disposed of into the rivers and water bodies. The presence of heavy metals and high content of alkali metals challenges a potential threat to the living organism after the disposal in the river. The leaching of heavy metals and alkali metals may lead to water pollution. Besides this, incense sticks also have a high amount of calcium, silica, alumina, and ferrous along with traces of rutile and other oxides either in crystalline or amorphous phases. The incense sticks ash, heavy metals, and alkali metals can be extracted by water, mineral acids, and alkali. Ferrous can be extracted by magnetic separation, while calcium by HCl, alumina by sulfuric acid treatment, and silica by strong hydroxides like NaOH. The recovery of such elements by using acids and bases will eliminate their toxic heavy metals at the same time recovering major value-added minerals from it. Here, in the present research work, the effect on the elemental composition, morphology, crystallinity, and size of incense sticks ash particles was observed by extracting ferrous, followed by extraction of calcium by HCl and alumina by H2SO4 at 90-95 °C for 90 min. The final residue was treated with 4 M NaOH, in order to extract leachable silica at 90 °C for 90 min along with continuous stirring. The transformation of various minerals phases and microstructures of incense sticks ash (ISA) and other residues during ferrous, extraction, calcium, and alumina and silica extraction was studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). DLS was used for analyzing the size during the experiments while FTIR helped in the confirmation of the formation of new products during the treatments. From the various instrumental analyses, it was found that the toxic metals present in the initial incense sticks ash got eliminated. Besides this, the major alkali metals, i.e., Ca and Mg, got reduced during these successive treatments. Initially, there were mainly irregular shaped, micron-sized particles that were dominant in the incense sticks ash particles. Besides this, there were plenty of carbon particles left unburned during combustion. In the final residue, nanosized flowers shaped along with cuboidal micron-sized particles were dominant. present in If, such sequential techniques will be applied by the industries based on recycling of incense sticks ash, then not only the solid waste pollution will be reduced but also numerous value-added minerals like ferrous, silica, alumina calcium oxides and carbonates can be recovered from such waste. The value-added minerals could act as an economical and sustainable source of adsorbent for wastewater treatment in future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virendra Kumar Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, School of Sciences, P P Savani University, Kosamba, Surat, Gujarat, 394125, India
- School of Life Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302017, India
| | - Krishna Kumar Yadav
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Madhyanchal Professional University, Ratibad, Bhopal, 462044, India.
| | - Javed Alam
- King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marina Ms Cabral-Pinto
- Geobiotec Research Centre, Department of Geosciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Govindhan Gnanamoorthy
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600025, India
| | - Mansour Alhoshan
- King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hesam Kamyab
- Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, 54100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ali Awadh Hamid
- Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fekri Abdulraqeb Ahmed Ali
- Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arun Kumar Shukla
- Chemical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Saud University, P.O. Box-2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chi MC, Lin ZC, Lee CW, Huang CCY, Peng KT, Lin CM, Lee HC, Fang ML, Chiang YC. Tanshinone IIA suppresses burning incense-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways in astrocytes. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 258:114987. [PMID: 37172407 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The burning incense (BI) behavior could be widely observed in Asia families. Incense sticks are often believed to be made from natural herbs and powders, and to have minimal impact on human health; however, there is limited research to support this claim. The current study aimed to identify the components of BI within the particulate matter 2.5 µm (PM2.5) range and explore if BI has bio-toxicity effects on rat astrocytes (CTX-TNA2). The study also examined the protective effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of tanshinone IIA, a primary lipid-soluble compound found in the herb danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge), which has been shown to benefit the central nervous system. Results showed that despite the differences in BI components compared to the atmospheric particulate matter (PM) standards, BI still had a bio-toxicity on astrocytes. BI exposure caused early and late apoptosis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, MAPKs (JNK, p38, and ERK), and Akt signaling activation, and inflammation-related proteins (cPLA2, COX-2, HO-1, and MMP-9) increases. Our results further exhibit that the tanshinone IIA pre-treatment could significantly avoid the BI-induced apoptosis and inflammatory signals on rat astrocytes. These findings suggest that BI exposure may cause oxidative stress in rat astrocytes and increase inflammation-related proteins and support the potential of tanshinone IIA as a candidate for preventing BI-related adverse health effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miao-Ching Chi
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City 243, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan
| | - Zih-Chan Lin
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan
| | - Chiang-Wen Lee
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan
| | | | - Kuo-Ti Peng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Mo Lin
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Chun Lee
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Ling Fang
- Center for Environmental Toxin and Emerging-Contaminant Research, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan; Super Micro Research and Technology Center, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Chang Chiang
- Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan; Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County 61363, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Egbe AM, Tabot PT, Fonge BA, Ngole-Jeme VM. Heavy metal exposure risk associated with ingestion of Oreochromis niloticus and Coptodon kottae harvested from a lacustrine ecosystem. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:427. [PMID: 36843174 PMCID: PMC9968700 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-10936-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Lacustrine ecosystems have not been widely assessed for heavy metal contamination and associated health risks; yet, they could be accumulating these contaminants to the detriment of aquatic organisms and communities relying on them for various aspects. The water quality index (WQI) and concentrations of heavy metals including As, Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn in water, sediment, Oreochromis niloticus, and in the endemic and endangered Coptodon kottae in Lake Barombi Kotto in Cameroon were determined to evaluate fish heavy metal bioaccumulation, and heavy metal exposure risk posed to communities consuming these fish species. The WQI of the lake was found to be excellent with heavy metal concentrations that were lower than what was obtained in the sediments and fish samples. Mean heavy metal concentrations in sediment ranged from 0.86 ± 0.03 mg/kg for Cd to 560.1 ± 11.15 mg/kg for Fe. In both fish species, Fe, Mn, and Cu had the highest concentrations. Though the heavy metal concentrations in the lake water were low, heavy metal bioconcentration factors for both fish species were very high ranging from 1.6 for Fe to 1568 for Mn. The concentration patterns of heavy metals in the organs of both fish species followed the order bones > gut > muscle. Consumption of these two fish species contributes less than 1.0% of the permissible tolerable daily intake (PTDI) and provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) of these metals with lead (Pb) having the potential to exceed permissible exposure levels when high amounts of these fish are consumed by adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Awo Miranda Egbe
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Buea, PO BOX 63, Fako, Division South West Region, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Pascal Tabi Tabot
- Department of Agriculture, Higher Technical Teachers' Training College Kumba, Kumba, Meme Division, South West Region, Cameroon
| | - Beatrice Ambo Fonge
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Buea, PO BOX 63, Fako, Division South West Region, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Veronica M Ngole-Jeme
- Department of Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, Roodepoort, Johannesburg, Gauteng Province, 1710, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yadav VK, Malik P, Tirth V, Khan SH, Yadav KK, Islam S, Choudhary N, Inwati GK, Arabi A, Kim DH, Jeon BH. Health and Environmental Risks of Incense Smoke: Mechanistic Insights and Cumulative Evidence. J Inflamm Res 2022; 15:2665-2693. [PMID: 35509323 PMCID: PMC9058426 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s347489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Incense burning is practiced alongside many sacred rituals across different regions of the world. Invariable constituents of incense brands are 21% (by weight) herbal and wood powder, 33% bamboo stick, 35% fragrance material, and 11% adhesive powder. Major incense-combustion outputs include particulate matter (PM), volatile organic content, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons. The relative toxicity of these products is an implicit function of particle size and incomplete combustion, which in turn vary for a specific incense brand. Lately, the attention given to the Air Quality Index by international regulatory bodies has created concern about mounting PM toxicity. The uncharacteristically small physical dimensions of these entities complicates their detection, and with no effect of gravity PM fractions rapidly contribute to oxidative stress, enhancing random biochemical reactions upon being inhaled. Incense burning generates four times the PM extent (45 mg•g−1) of cigarettes (~10 mg•g−1). Several poisonous gases, such as CO, CO2, NO2, and SO2, and the unavoidable challenge of disposing of the burnt incense ash further add to the toxicity. Taken together, these issues demonstrate that incense burning warrants prompt attention. The aim of this article is to highlight the toxicity of incense-combustion materials on the environment and human health. This discussion could be significant in framing future policy regarding ecofriendly incense manufacture and reduced usage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virendra Kumar Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, School of Sciences, PP Savani University, Surat, Gujarat, 394125, India
| | - Parth Malik
- School of Chemical Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, 382030, Gujarat, India
| | - Vineet Tirth
- Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, 61411, Asir, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha, 61413, Asir, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Krishna Kumar Yadav
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal, 462044, India
| | - Saiful Islam
- Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, 61411, Asir, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nisha Choudhary
- Department of Environment Science, School of Sciences, PP Savani University, Kosamba, Surat, Gujarat, 394125, India
| | - Gajendra Kumar Inwati
- Department of Chemistry, DP Chaturvedi College, Rani Durgavati University, Seoni, Madhya Pradesh, 480661, India
| | - Amir Arabi
- Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, 61411, Asir, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Do-Hyeon Kim
- Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, South Korea
| | - Byong-Hun Jeon
- Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, South Korea
- Correspondence: Byong-Hun Jeon, Email
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lee CW, Vo TTT, Wee Y, Chiang YC, Chi MC, Chen ML, Hsu LF, Fang ML, Lee KH, Guo SE, Cheng HC, Lee IT. The Adverse Impact of Incense Smoke on Human Health: From Mechanisms to Implications. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:5451-5472. [PMID: 34712057 PMCID: PMC8548258 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s332771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Incense burning is a very popular activity in daily life among many parts all over the world. A growing body of both epidemiological and experimental evidences has reported the negative effects of incense use on human well-being, posing a potential threat at public significance. This work is a comprehensive review that covers the latest findings regarding the adverse impact of incense smoke on our health, providing a panoramic visualization ranging from mechanisms to implications. The toxicities of incense smoke come directly from its harmful constituents and deposition capacity in the body. Besides, reactive oxygen species-driven oxidative stress and associated inflammation seem to be plausible underlying mechanisms, eliciting various unfavorable responses. Although our current knowledge remains many gaps, this issue still has some important implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiang-Wen Lee
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center and Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Thi Thuy Tien Vo
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yinshen Wee
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Yao-Chang Chiang
- Department of Nursing, Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center and Research Center for Chinese Herbal Medicine, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
| | - Miao-Ching Chi
- Chronic Disease and Health Promotion Research Center, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
| | - Min-Li Chen
- Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Fen Hsu
- Department of Respiratory Care, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Ling Fang
- Center for Environmental Toxin and Emerging-Contaminant Research, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Super Micro Research and Technology Center, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Han Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Su-Er Guo
- Graduate Institute of Nursing, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Puzi City, Chiayi County, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Chung Cheng
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - I-Ta Lee
- School of Dentistry, College of Oral Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang YL, Tsou MCM, Pan KH, Özkaynak H, Dang W, Hsi HC, Chien LC. Estimation of Soil and Dust Ingestion Rates from the Stochastic Human Exposure and Dose Simulation Soil and Dust Model for Children in Taiwan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:11805-11813. [PMID: 34388337 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c00706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on estimating the probabilistic soil and dust ingestion rates for children under 3 years old by the Stochastic Human Exposure and Dose Simulation Soil and Dust (SHEDS-S/D) model developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The health risk of children's exposure to heavy metals through soil and dust ingestion and dermal absorption was then assessed in three exposure scenarios. In the exposure scenario of direct contact with soil, the average soil and dust ingestion rates for children aged 24 to 36 months were 90.7 and 29.8 mg day-1 in the sand and clay groups, respectively. Hand-to-mouth soil ingestion was identified as the main contributor to soil and dust ingestion rates, followed by hand-to-mouth dust ingestion and object-to-mouth dust ingestion. The soil-to-skin adherence factor was the most influential factor increasing the soil and dust ingestion rate based on a sensitivity analysis in the SHEDS-S/D model. Furthermore, the modeled soil and dust ingestion rates based on the SHEDS-S/D model were coincident with results calculated by the tracer element method. Our estimates highlight the soil ingestion rate as the key parameter increasing the risk for children, while a higher frequency of hand washing could potentially reduce the risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Lin Wang
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Rd., Sec. 4, Da'an Dist., Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chien Mark Tsou
- Research Center for Environmental Changes, Academia Sinica, Building, No.128, Section 2, Academia Road, Nankang, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hsuan Pan
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Rd., Sec. 4, Da'an Dist., Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Halûk Özkaynak
- National Exposure Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (D205-05), RTP, North Carolina 27711, United States
| | - Winston Dang
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Cheng Hsi
- Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Taiwan University, 1 Roosevelt Rd., Sec. 4, Da'an Dist., Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Chu Chien
- School of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Neuroscience Research Center, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Nutrition Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, 252 Wuxing St., Xinyi Dist., Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen KF, Tsai YP, Lai CH, Xiang YK, Chuang KY, Zhu ZH. Human health-risk assessment based on chronic exposure to the carbonyl compounds and metals emitted by burning incense at temples. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:40640-40652. [PMID: 32743699 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10313-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Health effects resulting from the smoke of carbonyl compounds (aldehydes and ketones) and metal-containing incense particles at temples during incense burning periods were evaluated at temple A (without incense reduction activities) and B (with incense reduction activities), Nantou County, in 2018. The predominant size fractions of particles were PM1, PM1-2.5, and PM2.5-10 at both temples. The total particle mass at temple A was approximately 1.1 times that of temple B due to incense reduction at temple B. The most abundant metal elements in all particle size fractions at both temples were Fe, Al, and Zn. Metal species of incense smoke are divided into three groups by hierarchical cluster analysis and heatmaps, showing higher metal contents in groups PM1, PM18-10, and PM18-2.5 at temple A. In contrast, higher metal contents were observed in PM18-10 and PM2.5-1 at temple B. Most of the carbonyl species were formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, released during incense burning periods, with concentrations ranging from 6.20 to 13.05 μg/m3 at both temples. The total deposited fluxes of particle-bound metals at temples A and B were determined to be 83.00% and 84.82% using the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) model. Health-risk assessments revealed that the risk values of metals and carbonyls were above recommended guidelines (10-6) at temple A. Since worshippers and staff are exposed to incense burning environments with poor ventilation over a long period, these toxic organic compounds and metals increase health risks in the respiratory tract. Therefore, incense reduction is important to achieve healthy temple environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ku-Fan Chen
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Pin Tsai
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Chi Nan University, Nantou, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hsiang Lai
- Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | - Yao-Kai Xiang
- Institute of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Kuen-Yuan Chuang
- Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Zhen-Hong Zhu
- Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wei CF, Chen MH, Lin CC, Guo YL, Lin SJ, Hsieh WS, Chen PC. Household incense burning and infant gross motor development: Results from the Taiwan Birth Cohort Study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 115:110-116. [PMID: 29558633 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Air pollution from biomass burning were associated with neurodevelopmental deceleration, but limited studies concerned about the effect of indoor biomass burning. Incense burning is a common household ritual practice in Taiwan, while past studies mainly focused on birth weight and allergic disease. OBJECTIVES We aimed to find the association between incense burning exposure and children's neurodevelopment. METHODS In Taiwan Birth Cohort Study (TBCS), a nationwide representative birth cohort study, children were assessed upon home interview with structured questionnaires upon six and eighteen months old. Multivariate logistic and Cox proportional hazard regression adjusting confounding factors were applied to explore the odds ratio (OR) and hazard ratio (HR) between household incense burning exposure and caregiver-reported neurodevelopment milestones. RESULTS In this study, 15,310 term singletons were included, and household incense burning was associated with delay in gross motor neurodevelopment milestone, such as walking with support (Occasional incense burning: OR = 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08 to 1.47, HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.11; persistent incense burning: OR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.22 to 1.69, HR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.16) and walking steadily (Occasional incense burning: OR = 1.14, 95% CI: 0.98 to 1.32, HR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.11, persistent incense burning: OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.45, HR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.13). CONCLUSIONS Our study suggested household incense burning exposure was associated with delay in gross motor neurodevelopmental milestones. Further research is warranted to elucidate the possible mechanism and causal relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Fu Wei
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Huei Chen
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chun Lin
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yueliang Leon Guo
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Shio-Jean Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Shiun Hsieh
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pediatrics, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Pau-Chung Chen
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cui L, Duo B, Zhang F, Li C, Fu H, Chen J. Physiochemical characteristics of aerosol particles collected from the Jokhang Temple indoors and the implication to human exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 236:992-1003. [PMID: 29452713 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.10.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents a detailed study on the indoor air pollution in the Jokahng Temple at Tibet Plateau, and its implication to human health. The mean concentrations of PM1.0 and PM2.5 were 435.0 ± 309.5 and 483.0 ± 284.9 μg/m3, respectively. The PM2.5 concentration exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (75 μg/m3) by 6.4 times. The size-segregated aerosols displayed a bimodal distribution. One peak was observed in the fine mode (0.4-2.1 μm) and the other peak appeared in the coarse mode (2.1-9.0 μm). The concentration of the total size-resolved PM was 794.3 ± 84.9 μg/m3. The mass fraction of coarse particles shared by 41.1%, apparently higher than that reported at low altitudes, probably due to incomplete combustion at Tibet Plateau with hypoxic atmospheric environment. The total concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was 331.2 ± 60.3 ng/m3, in which the concentration of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) was 18.5 ± 4.3 ng/m3, over ten times higher than the maximum permissible risk value of 1 ng/m3 on account of carcinogenic potency of particulate PAHs through inhalation. PAHs exhibited a trimodal distribution, of which two peaks were observed in the fine mode and one peak in the coarse mode. With the aromatic rings increasing, the peak intensity increased in the fine mode. Na, Ca, Al, Mg and K dominated the elemental mass profiles, and metals displayed a bimodal distribution with a dominant peak in the coarse range. The total PAH deposition flux was 123.6 and 53.1 ng/h for adults and children, respectively. Coarse particles contributed most deposition flux in the head region, while fine particles contribute most deposition flux in the alveolar region. The increment lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) of PAHs ranaged at 10-5-10-4, indicating potential cancer risk to human health. The total deposition flux of metals was estimated at 1.4-13.2 ng/h. With the size increasing, deposition flux increased in the head region while decreased in the alveolar region. The highest ILCR of Cr and Ni were 4.9 × 10-5 and 1.5 × 10-6, respectively, exceeding the permissible risk of 10-6. The hazard quotient (HQ) of Fe (10-5-10-4) and Zn (10-6-10-5) were much lower than the safe level of 1.0, and thus they were not considered as a health concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Cui
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Bu Duo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China; Department of Chemistry& Environmental Science, Tibet University, Lhasa 850000, China
| | - Fei Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Chunlin Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Hongbo Fu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology(CICAEET), Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China
| | - Jianmin Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention, Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ngole-Jeme VM, Ekosse GIE, Songca SP. An analysis of human exposure to trace elements from deliberate soil ingestion and associated health risks. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2018; 28:55-63. [PMID: 27924816 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2016.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Revised: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Fifty-seven samples of soils commonly ingested in South Africa, Swaziland, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Togo were analyzed for the concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn) and their bioaccessibility in the human gastrointestinal tract. Bioaccessibility values were used to calculate daily intake, and hazard quotient of each trace element, and chronic hazard index (CHI) of each sample. Carcinogenic risk associated with As and Ni exposure were also calculated. Mean pseudo-total concentrations of trace elements in all samples were 7.2, 83.3, 77.1, 15.4, 28.6, 24.9, 56.1, 2.8, and 26.5 mg/kg for As, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb, respectively. Percent bioaccessibility of Pb (13-49%) and Zn (38-56%) were highest among trace elements studied. Average daily intake values were lower than their respective reference doses for ell elements except for Pb in selected samples. Samples from DRC presented the highest health risks associated with trace element exposure with most of the samples having CHI values between 0.5 and 1.0. Some samples had higher than unacceptable values of carcinogenic risk associated with As and Ni exposure. Results indicate low trace element exposure risk from ingesting most of the soil samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica M Ngole-Jeme
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida 1710, Roodepoort, South Africa
| | - Georges-Ive E Ekosse
- Directorate of Research and Innovation, University of Venda, Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province 0950, South Africa
| | - Sandile P Songca
- Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Teaching and Learning, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen YC, Ho WC, Yu YH. Adolescent lung function associated with incense burning and other environmental exposures at home. INDOOR AIR 2017; 27:746-752. [PMID: 27859699 PMCID: PMC5484285 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Incense burning is a popular cultural and religious practice, but whether exposure to incense smoke has effects on lung function is unclear. We investigated association between lung function and incense burning exposure and other household exposures in adolescents who participated in a mass asthma-screening program. Information on asthmatic status and associated factors was obtained from parent-completed questionnaires and student-completed video questionnaires. Approximately 10% of students received lung function examinations. Valid lung function data of 5010 students aged 14-16 years in northern Taiwan were analyzed. Forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory flow in 1 second (FEV1 ) were compared by incense burning status and other types of exposures for adolescents. Overall, 70.6% of students were exposed to incense smoke at home. The mean FVC and FEV1 measures were lower among adolescents with daily exposure to incense burning than those without such exposure (P<.05). Sharing bedroom was also associated with decreased FVC and FEV1 . After controlling for confounding factors, multivariable linear regression analysis with generalized estimation equation showed that FVC was negatively associated with daily exposure to incense burning, sharing a bedroom, and living in a house adjacent to a traffic road. Such associations were also observed in FEV1 . Daily exposure to incense burning is associated with impaired adolescent lung function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y. C. Chen
- Department of Health ManagementCollege of MedicineI‐Shou UniversityYanchao DistrictKaohsiungTaiwan
- Bachelor's Degree Program for Indigenous Peoples in Long‐term CareI‐Shou UniversityYanchao DistrictKaohsiungTaiwan
| | - W. C. Ho
- Department of Public HealthChina Medical UniversityTaichungTaiwan
| | - Y. H. Yu
- Department of Internal MedicineDivisions of Pulmonary and Critical Care MedicineChina Medical University HospitalTaichungTaiwan
- School of MedicineChina Medical UniversityTaichungTaiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Yang TT, Ho SC, Chuang LT, Chuang HC, Li YT, Wu JJ. Characterization of particulate-phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons emitted from incense burning and their bioreactivity in RAW264.7 macrophage. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 220:1190-1198. [PMID: 27865658 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 11/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) produced from burning three incense types on and their bioreactivity in the RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cell line. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was used to determine the levels of 16 identified PAHs. Macrophages were exposed to incense particle extracts at concentrations of 0, 3.125, 6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 μg/mL for 24 h. After exposure, cell viability and nitric oxide (NO) and inflammatory mediator [tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α] production of the cells were examined. The mean atomic hydrogen (H) to carbon (C) ratios in the environmentally friendly, binchotan charcoal, and lao shan incenses were 0.69, 1.13, and 1.71, respectively. PAH and total toxic equivalent (TEQ) mass fraction in the incenses ranged from 137.84 to 231.00 and 6.73-26.30 pg/μg, respectively. The exposure of RAW 264.7 macrophages to incense particles significantly increased TNF-α and NO production and reduced cell viability. The cells treated with particles collected from smoldering the environmentally friendly incense produced more NO and TNF-α compared to other incenses. Additionally, the TEQ of fluoranthene (FL), pyrene (Pyr), benzo[a]anthracene (BaA), chrysene (Chr), benzo[b]fluoranthene (BbF), benzo[k]fluoranthene (BkF), benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene (INP), dibenz[a,h]anthracene (DBA), and benzo[g,h,i]perylene [B(ghi)P] had a significant correlation (R2 = 0.64-0.98, P < 0.05) with NO and TNF-α production. The current findings indicate that incense particle-bound PAHs are biologically active and that burning an incense with a lower H/C ratio caused higher bioreactivity. The stimulatory effect of PAH-containing particles on molecular mechanisms of inflammation are critical for future study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Ting Yang
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, No. 306, Yuanpei St., Hsin Chu, Taiwan.
| | - Su-Chen Ho
- Department of Food Science, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, No. 306, Yuanpei St., Hsin Chu, Taiwan
| | - Lu-Te Chuang
- Department of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Technology, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, No. 306, Yuanpei St., Hsin Chu, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chi Chuang
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Ting Li
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, No. 306, Yuanpei St., Hsin Chu, Taiwan
| | - Jyun-Jie Wu
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Medical Technology, No. 306, Yuanpei St., Hsin Chu, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chemical composition and potential health risks of raw Arabian incense (Bakhour). JOURNAL OF SAUDI CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jscs.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
15
|
Ngole-Jeme VM. Heavy metals in soils along unpaved roads in south west Cameroon: Contamination levels and health risks. AMBIO 2016; 45:374-386. [PMID: 26578255 PMCID: PMC4815760 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-015-0726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Soils enriched with heavy metals from vehicular emission present a significant exposure route of heavy metals to individuals using unpaved roads. This study assessed the extent of Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn contamination of soils along unpaved roads in Cameroon, and the health risks presented by incidental ingestion and dermal contact with the soils using metal contamination factor (CF) pollution load index, hazard quotients (HQ) and chronic hazard index (CHI). CF values obtained (0.9-12.2) indicate moderate to high contamination levels. HQ values for Cr, Cd and Pb exceeded the reference doses. Moderate health hazard exists for road users in the areas with intense anthropogenic activities and high average daily traffic (ADT) volume according to CHI values (1-4) obtained. The economy and quality of life in cities with unpaved roads could be threatened by health challenges resulting from long-term exposure to heavy metal derived from high ADT volumes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica M Ngole-Jeme
- Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Science and Technology, North West University (Mafikeng Campus), Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2735, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hwang YH, Lin YS, Lin CY, Wang IJ. Incense burning at home and the blood lead level of preschoolers in Taiwan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 21:13480-13487. [PMID: 25015713 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3273-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The growth and intellectual development of children less than 6 years old may be affected by exposure to low levels of lead. To further reduce environmental lead exposure, this study examined possible household-related factors that affect the blood lead levels of Taiwanese children. In total, based on a stratified random sampling strategy, 934 kindergarten students were recruited throughout Taiwan from April to October 2011 after their parents signed a statement of consent. A venous blood sample was drawn from each participant and analyzed for lead content using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Information on the demographics and household environment of the study subjects was collected by administering a questionnaire (Table 1). The geometric mean lead level in the blood samples of the study subjects was 1.84 μg/dL with a geometric standard deviation of 1.55. The blood lead level was negatively correlated with household income and parental educational levels (p < 0.0001). Study subjects with more siblings also tended to have higher blood lead levels (p < 0.0001). Incense burning in the home, an ethnic tradition, was also identified as a significant factor for increased blood lead levels (p < 0.0003) and demonstrated a dose-dependent relationship with frequency of incense burning at home (p = 0.0022). Because the health effects of low levels of lead exposure have been reported in recent years and because no consensus has been reached regarding a safety threshold for blood lead level in children, any trivial factor is worth investigating to further prevent lead exposure in children. Incense burning at home is a common traditional religious activity in Taiwan; therefore, more study is warranted to further eliminate the lead content in incense and reduce lead exposure for the families who practice this activity.
Collapse
|
17
|
Huang TL, Huang LY, Fu SF, Trinh NN, Huang HJ. Genomic profiling of rice roots with short- and long-term chromium stress. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 86:157-70. [PMID: 25056418 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-014-0219-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2014] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Cr(VI) is the most toxic valency form of Cr, but its toxicity targets and the cellular systems contributing to acquisition of tolerance remain to be resolved at the molecular level in plants. We used microarray assay to analyze the transcriptomic profiles of rice roots in response to Cr(VI) stress. Gene ontology analysis revealed that the 2,688 Cr-responsive genes were involved in binding activity, metabolic process, biological regulation, cellular process and catalytic activity. More transcripts were responsive to Cr(VI) during long-term exposure (24 h, 2,097 genes), than short-term exposure (1- and 3-h results pooled, 1,181 genes). Long-term Cr(VI)-regulated genes are involved in cytokinin signaling, the ubiquitin-proteasome system pathway, DNA repair and Cu transportation. The expression of AS2 transcription factors was specifically modulated by long-term Cr(VI) stress. The protein kinases receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase and receptor-like kinase in flowers 3 were significantly upregulated with only short-term Cr(VI) exposure. In addition, 4 mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinases, 1 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and 1 calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK) were upregulated with short-term Cr(VI) treatment. Expression of reactive oxygen species and calcium and activity of MAPKs and CDPK-like kinases were induced with increasing Cr(VI) concentration. These results may provide new insights into understanding the mechanisms of Cr toxicity and tolerance during different stages in rice roots.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Lien Huang
- Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1 University Road, Tainan City, 701, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Huang TL, Nguyen QTT, Fu SF, Lin CY, Chen YC, Huang HJ. Transcriptomic changes and signalling pathways induced by arsenic stress in rice roots. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2012; 80:587-608. [PMID: 22987115 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-012-9969-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2012] [Accepted: 09/08/2012] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is considered the most common toxic metalloid, but its molecular mode of action is not well understood. We investigated whether arsenate [As(V)] can induce intracellular reactive oxygen species production and calcium oscillation in rice roots. To better understand the molecular basis of plant cell responses to As, we performed a large-scale analysis of the rice transcriptome during As(V) stress. As(V) induced genes involved in abiotic stress, detoxification pathways and secondary metabolic process. Genes involved in secondary cell wall biogenesis, cell cycle and oligopeptide transport were mainly downregulated. Genes encoding signalling components such as receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases protein kinase, APETALA2/ethylene response factor, heat shock factor, MYB and zinc-finger protein expressed in inflorescence meristem transcription factors were increased in expression. The expression of GARP-G2-like and C3H transcription factors was specifically modulated by As(V) stress. The predominant families of As(V)-regulated transporters belonged to the ATP-binding cassette superfamily and telurite-resistance/dicarboxylate transporters. Several factors involved in signaling, such as mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), MAPK kinase kinase and calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK), were also upregulated. Moreover, As(V) markedly increased the activity of MAPKs and CDPK-like kinases, and CDPK and NADPH oxidases were involved in As-induced MAPK activation. Further characterization of these As(V)-responsive genes and signalling pathways may help better understand the mechanisms of metalloid uptake, tolerance and detoxification in plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tsai-Lien Huang
- Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1 University Road, 701 Tainan City, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen YA, Chi WC, Huang TL, Lin CY, Quynh Nguyeh TT, Hsiung YC, Chia LC, Huang HJ. Mercury-induced biochemical and proteomic changes in rice roots. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2012; 55:23-32. [PMID: 22522577 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2012] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a serious environmental pollution threats to the planet. Accumulation of Hg in plants disrupts many cellular-level functions and inhibits growth and development, but the mechanism is not fully understood. We investigated cellular, biochemical and proteomic changes in rice roots under Hg stress. Root growth rate was decreased and Hg, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) content and lipoxygenase activity were increased significantly with increasing Hg concentration in roots. We revealed a time-dependent alteration in total glutathione content and enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) during Hg stress. 2-D electrophoresis revealed differential expression of 25 spots with Hg treatment of roots: 14 spots were upregulated and 11 spots downregulated. These differentially expressed proteins were identified by ESI-MS/MS to be involved in cellular functions including redox and hormone homeostasis, chaperone activity, metabolism, and transcription regulation. These results may provide new insights into the molecular basis of the Hg stress response in plants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun-An Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 70, Lienhai Road, 80424 Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yang TT, Lin ST, Lin TS, Hong WL. Characterization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon emissions in the particulate phase from burning incenses with various atomic hydrogen/carbon ratios. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2012; 414:335-342. [PMID: 22134031 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2011.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2011] [Revised: 09/26/2011] [Accepted: 11/03/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the particulate phase generated from burning various incense was investigated by a gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Among the used incenses, the atomic H/C ratio ranged from 0.51 to 1.69, yielding the emission factor ranges for total particulate mass and PAHs of 4.19-82.16 mg/g and 1.20-9.50 μg/g, respectively. The atomic H/C ratio of the incense was the key factor affecting particulate mass and the PAHs emission factors. Both the maximum emission factor and the slowest burning rate appear at the H/C ratio of 1.57. The concentrations of the four-ring PAHs predominated and the major species among the 16 PAHs were fluoranthene, phenanthrene, pyrene, and chrysene for most incense types. The benzo[a]pyrene, benzo[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluoranthene, and dibenzo[a,h]anthracene accounted for 87.08-93.47% of the total toxic equivalency emission factor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Ting Yang
- Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University, No 306, Yuanpei St, Hsin Chu, 300, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Karimi I, Becker LA, Chalechale A, Ghashghaii A. Biochemical plasma profile of male rats exposed to smoke of agarwood (Aquilaria spp.). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s00580-011-1227-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
22
|
Estrellan CR, Iino F. Toxic emissions from open burning. CHEMOSPHERE 2010; 80:193-207. [PMID: 20471058 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2010.03.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2009] [Revised: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 03/31/2010] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
This review compiled the data from recent actual and simulation studies on toxic emissions from open burning and categorized into sources, broadly as biomass and anthropogenic fuels. Emission factors, in mass of pollutant per mass of material being burned, and actual concentrations, in mass of pollutant per unit volume have been compared based on source classifications. In addition to gaseous emissions, this review presents the updated data on emissions to air in the form of particulate matter, and emissions to soil and water environment. Data from forest fires, accidental fires such as vehicle fires, house fires, and unintentional landfill fires are included in this review as well as combustion involving traditional and recreational activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carl Renan Estrellan
- Institute of Sustainability and Peace, United Nations University, 5-53-70 Jingu-mae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fang GC, Lin SJ, Lee JF, Chang CC. A study of particulates and metallic element concentrations in temple. Toxicol Ind Health 2009; 25:93-100. [PMID: 19458131 DOI: 10.1177/0748233709105594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Concentrations of ambient suspended particulates were measured at Tzu Yun Yen temple in Taiwan (120 degrees , 34', 46.2''E, 24 degrees , 16', 17.1''N), where semi-open incense burning is characteristic. Many pilgrims from different areas with various beliefs visit the temple and burn incense. Samples were collected with a universal sampler used for measuring suspended particulate concentrations. Sampling period was from August 8, 2006, to October 6, 2006. The average PM(10) concentrations measured at the temple were 16% higher than 125 microg/m(3) (this value is the outdoor air quality standard according to Taiwan Environmental Protection Administration (EPA)). In coarse particulates (PM(2.5-10)), the mean metallic elements concentrations are in the order of Ca>Mg>Zn>Fe>Mn>Cr>Cu>Pb during weekend and weekday sampling. In addition, the fine particulates (PM(2.5)) mean metallic elements concentrations are in the order of Ca>Mg>Fe>Zn>Cr>Mn>Pb>Cu during weekend sampling and Ca>Fe>Mg>Zn>Cr>Mn>Pb>Cu during weekday sampling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G C Fang
- Air Toxic and Environmental Analysis Laboratory, Hungkuang University, Sha-Lu, Taichung, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese immigrants, compared with Chinese in China and South East Asia: review. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2009; 123:1067-74. [DOI: 10.1017/s0022215109005623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObjectives:To evaluate the literature and to compare published data on age-standardised incidence rates of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese people living in and outside China.Design:Systematic review of incidence rate studies and statistical incidence data concerning nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese populations from 1960 to 2008.Data sources:Sixteen papers were identified from the PubMed, Embase and Scopus electronic databases and from a hand search of the reference lists of the retrieved papers. Further searches for raw data on age-specific and age-standardised incidence rates of nasopharyngeal carcinoma were conducted. Textbooks on relevant subjects were referred to for background information. A total of 19 papers met the inclusion criteria.Results:Seven studies included raw data on age-specific and age-standardised incidence rates of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese people. Twelve other studies reported on changes in the incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese populations in selected countries or regions. Studies on age-specific and age-standardised rates obtained data from individual registries. Studies on incidence rates obtained data from hospital records, cancer notifications (from all sections of the medical profession), pathology records and death certificates. The results showed a decline in age-standardised incidence rates of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese immigrant populations, compared with Chinese people in China. There was also a trend towards decreasing incidence the further the population had immigrated. Thus, the incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Singaporean Chinese was higher than that in Hawaiian Chinese, and that in Hawaiian Chinese was higher than that in Californian Chinese.Conclusion:This review found a decreasing trend in the incidence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Chinese migrants living in countries with a low risk of the disease.
Collapse
|
25
|
Lin TC, Krishnaswamy G, Chi DS. Incense smoke: clinical, structural and molecular effects on airway disease. Clin Mol Allergy 2008; 6:3. [PMID: 18439280 PMCID: PMC2377255 DOI: 10.1186/1476-7961-6-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2008] [Accepted: 04/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In Asian countries where the Buddhism and Taoism are mainstream religions, incense burning is a daily practice. A typical composition of stick incense consists of 21% (by weight) of herbal and wood powder, 35% of fragrance material, 11% of adhesive powder, and 33% of bamboo stick. Incense smoke (fumes) contains particulate matter (PM), gas products and many organic compounds. On average, incense burning produces particulates greater than 45 mg/g burned as compared to 10 mg/g burned for cigarettes. The gas products from burning incense include CO, CO2, NO2, SO2, and others. Incense burning also produces volatile organic compounds, such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes, as well as aldehydes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The air pollution in and around various temples has been documented to have harmful effects on health. When incense smoke pollutants are inhaled, they cause respiratory system dysfunction. Incense smoke is a risk factor for elevated cord blood IgE levels and has been indicated to cause allergic contact dermatitis. Incense smoke also has been associated with neoplasm and extracts of particulate matter from incense smoke are found to be mutagenic in the Ames Salmonella test with TA98 and activation. In order to prevent airway disease and other health problem, it is advisable that people should reduce the exposure time when they worship at the temple with heavy incense smokes, and ventilate their house when they burn incense at home.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ta-Chang Lin
- Department of Environmental Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|