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Takatani T, Takatani R, Eguchi A, Yamamoto M, Sakurai K, Taniguchi Y, Kobayashi Y, Mori C, Kamijima M. Association between maternal blood or cord blood metal concentrations and catch-up growth in children born small for gestational age: an analysis by the Japan environment and children's study. Environ Health 2024; 23:18. [PMID: 38336787 PMCID: PMC10858588 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-024-01061-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Catch-up growth issues among children born small for gestational age (SGA) present a substantial public health challenge. Prenatal exposure to heavy metals can cause adverse effects on birth weight. However, comprehensive studies on the accurate assessment of individual blood concentrations of heavy metals and their effect on the failure to achieve catch-up growth remain unavailable. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of uterine exposure to toxic metals cadmium, lead, and mercury and essential trace metals manganese and selenium at low concentrations on the postnatal growth of children born SGA. METHODS Data on newborn birth size and other factors were obtained from the medical record transcripts and self-administered questionnaires of participants in the Japan Environment and Children's Study. The blood concentrations of lead, cadmium, mercury, selenium, and manganese in pregnant women in their second or third trimester were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. These heavy metal concentrations were also assessed in pregnant women's cord blood. Furthermore, the relationship between each heavy metal and height measure/catch-up growth in SGA children aged 4 years was analyzed using linear and logistic regression methods. These models were adjusted for confounders. RESULTS We studied 4683 mother-child pairings from 103,060 pregnancies included in the Japan Environment and Children's Study. Of these, 278 pairs were also analyzed using cord blood. At 3 and 4 years old, 10.7% and 9.0% of children who were born below the 10th percentile of body weight had height standard deviation scores (SDSs) below 2, respectively. Cord blood cadmium concentrations were associated with the inability to catch up in growth by 3 or 4 years old and the height SDS at 3 years old. In maternal blood, only manganese was positively associated with the height SDS of SGA children aged 2 years; however, it was not significantly associated with catch-up growth in these children. CONCLUSION Cadmium exposure is associated with failed catch-up development in SGA children. These new findings could help identify children highly at risk of failing to catch up in growth, and could motivate the elimination of heavy metal (especially cadmium) pollution to improve SGA children's growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomozumi Takatani
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan.
| | - Rieko Takatani
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Akifumi Eguchi
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Midori Yamamoto
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Kenichi Sakurai
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Yu Taniguchi
- Centre for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Ibaraki, 305- 8506, Japan
| | - Yayoi Kobayashi
- Centre for Health and Environmental Risk Research, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Ibaraki, 305- 8506, Japan
| | - Chisato Mori
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
- Department of Bioenvironmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Michihiro Kamijima
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1 Kawasumi, Mizuho-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, 467-8601, Japan.
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Huang J, Zeng Z, Xu X, Tian Q, Zheng K, Huo X. Blood lead levels of children exposed to e-waste: a systematic review and meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:64860-64871. [PMID: 37097575 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Blood lead levels (BLLs) have been decreasing worldwide for decades. However, systematic reviews and quantitative syntheses of BLLs in electronic waste (e-waste)-exposed children are lacking. To summarize temporal trend of BLLs among children in e-waste-recycling areas. Fifty-one studies met the inclusion criteria and included participants from six countries. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. Results showed that among e-waste-exposed children, the total geometric mean (GM) BLL was 7.54 μg/dL (95% CI: 6.77, 8.31). Children's BLLs displayed a decreasing temporal trend, from 11.77 μg/dL in phase I (2004-2006) to 4.63 μg/dL in phase V (2016-2018). Almost 95% of eligible studies found that children exposed to e-waste had significantly higher BLLs than reference groups. The difference of children's BLLs between the exposure group and the reference group was from 6.60 μg/dL (95% CI: 6.14, 7.05) in 2004 to 1.99 μg/dL (95% CI: 1.61, 2.36) in 2018. For subgroup analyses, except for Dhaka and Montevideo, the BLLs of children from Guiyu in the same survey year were higher than those of children from other regions. Our findings indicate that the gap between BLLs of children exposed to e-waste and those of reference group children is closing, and we appeal that the critical value for blood lead poisoning in children should be lowered in key e-waste-dismantling areas of developing countries, such as Guiyu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianwen Tian
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Keyang Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China.
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Srivastav AL, Markandeya, Patel N, Pandey M, Pandey AK, Dubey AK, Kumar A, Bhardwaj AK, Chaudhary VK. Concepts of circular economy for sustainable management of electronic wastes: challenges and management options. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:48654-48675. [PMID: 36849690 PMCID: PMC9970861 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26052-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
The electronic and electrical industrial sector is exponentially growing throughout the globe, and sometimes, these wastes are being disposed of and discarded with a faster rate in comparison to the past era due to technology advancements. As the application of electronic devices is increasing due to the digitalization of the world (IT sector, medical, domestic, etc.), a heap of discarded e-waste is also being generated. Per-capita e-waste generation is very high in developed countries as compared to developing countries. Expansion of the global population and advancement of technologies are mainly responsible to increase the e-waste volume in our surroundings. E-waste is responsible for environmental threats as it may contain dangerous and toxic substances like metals which may have harmful effects on the biodiversity and environment. Furthermore, the life span and types of e-waste determine their harmful effects on nature, and unscientific practices of their disposal may elevate the level of threats as observed in most developing countries like India, Nigeria, Pakistan, and China. In the present review paper, many possible approaches have been discussed for effective e-waste management, such as recycling, recovery of precious metals, adopting the concepts of circular economy, formulating relevant policies, and use of advance computational techniques. On the other hand, it may also provide potential secondary resources valuable/critical materials whose primary sources are at significant supply risk. Furthermore, the use of machine learning approaches can also be useful in the monitoring and treatment/processing of e-wastes. HIGHLIGHTS: In 2019, ~ 53.6 million tons of e-wastes generated worldwide. Discarded e-wastes may be hazardous in nature due to presence of heavy metal compositions. Precious metals like gold, silver, and copper can also be procured from e-wastes. Advance tools like artificial intelligence/machine learning can be useful in the management of e-wastes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arun Lal Srivastav
- Chitkara University School of Engineering and Technology, Chitkara University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 174103, India
| | - Markandeya
- Ex-Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Naveen Patel
- Department of Civil Engineerin, IET, Dr. RammanoharLohia Avadh University, Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya, India
| | - Mayank Pandey
- Department of Environmental Studies, P.G.D.A.V. College (Evening), University of Delhi, Delhi, 110065, India
| | - Ashutosh Kumar Pandey
- Department of Earth Sciences, Banasthali Vidyapith, Radha Kishnpura, P. O. Banasthali, Rajasthan, 304022, India
| | - Ashutosh Kumar Dubey
- Chitkara University School of Engineering and Technology, Chitkara University, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 174103, India.
| | - Abhishek Kumar
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Abhishek Kumar Bhardwaj
- Amity School of Life Sciences, Department of Environmental Science, Amity University, Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior, 474001, India
| | - Vinod Kumar Chaudhary
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Dr. Rammanohar Lohia Avadh University, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Ma Q, Liu Y, Yang X, Guo Y, Xiang T, Wang Y, Yan Y, Li D, Nie T, Li Z, Qu G, Jiang G. Effect-directed analysis for revealing aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonists in sediment samples from an electronic waste recycling town in China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 308:119659. [PMID: 35738515 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119659] [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: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to electronic and electrical waste (e-waste) has been related to a few adverse health effects. In this study, sediment samples from an e-waste recycling town in China were collected, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonists in the samples were identified using an effect-directed analysis (EDA) strategy. The CBG2.8D cell line reporter gene bioassay was used as a toxicity test, while suspect screening against chemical databases was performed for potential AhR agonist identification where both gas chromatography- and liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry analyses were run. When the original sample extract showed high AhR-mediated activity, sample fractionation was performed, and fractions exhibiting high bioactivity were chemically analyzed again to reveal the corresponding AhR agonists. In total, 23 AhR agonists were identified, including 14 commonly known ones and 9 new ones. Benzo [k]fluoranthene and 6-nitrochrysene were the dominant AhR agonists, covering 16-71% and 2.7-12%, respectively, of the AhR activation effects measured in the parent extracts. The newly identified AhR-active chemicals combined explained 0.13-0.20% of the parent extracts' effects, with 7,12-dimethylbenz [a]anthracene and 8,9,11-trimethylbenz [a]anthracene being the major contributors. A diagnostic isomer ratio analysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons suggested that the major source of AhR agonists identified in these e-waste related sediment samples were probably petroleum product combustion and biomass combustion. In the future, for a more comprehensive AhR agonist investigation, in-house chemical synthesis and purification, and, when necessary, a secondary sample fractionation, would be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianchi Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yanna Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Xiaoxi Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yunhe Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Remediation and Ecological Health, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental and Resource Science, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tongtong Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110819, China
| | - Yi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; Institute of Environment and Health, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuhao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Danyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Tong Nie
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430056, China
| | - Zikang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guangbo Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; Institute of Environment and Health, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; Institute of Environment and Health, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Key Laboratory of Environment Remediation and Ecological Health, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental and Resource Science, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China; Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110819, China; Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan, 430056, China
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5
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Takatani T, Eguchi A, Yamamoto M, Sakurai K, Takatani R, Taniguchi Y, Nakayama SF, Mori C, Kamijima M. Individual and mixed metal maternal blood concentrations in relation to birth size: An analysis of the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 165:107318. [PMID: 35679738 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth restriction in the prenatal period is a significant public health concern. Metals can negatively affect birth size, and pregnant women may be exposed to metal mixtures. Comprehensive studies analyzing the effects of combined metal exposure with accurate individual blood metal concentrations are limited. The current study investigated the associations between maternal metal exposure and birth size in a large, nationwide Japanese cohort using individual and mixed model approaches. METHODS Lead, cadmium, mercury, selenium, and manganese blood concentrations were measured in pregnant women in the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). Measurements of infant birth size-including body weight, body length, and head and chest circumference-were collected. Linear and logistic regressions were used for birth size measurements and the odds of an infant being small in size for gestational age, respectively. Associations between combined metal mixtures and measurements at birth were evaluated using quantile g-computation and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). RESULTS Of the 103,060 JECS pregnancies, 93,739 mother-infant pairs were analyzed. The linear regression models showed that lead, selenium, cadmium, and manganese-but not mercury-were associated with body weight. Cadmium was associated with length and chest circumference and mercury was associated with head circumference. Quantile g-computation revealed that manganese increased infant birth weight, length, head circumference, and chest circumference. Lead was the strongest negative factor for infant birth weight, length, head circumference, and chest circumference. The BKMR analysis revealed that the metals had an additive, rather than a synergistic effect. CONCLUSION Metal exposure is associated with infant birth size, with lead and manganese playing a more significant role in Japan. The effects of prenatal combined metal exposure at low levels warrant public health attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomozumi Takatani
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Akifumi Eguchi
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Midori Yamamoto
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kenichi Sakurai
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Rieko Takatani
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yu Taniguchi
- Japan Environment and Children's Study Programme Office, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shoji F Nakayama
- Japan Environment and Children's Study Programme Office, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Chisato Mori
- Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan; Department of Bioenvironmental Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Michihiro Kamijima
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan.
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6
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Chinomso Iroegbu A, Ray SS. Lignin and Keratin-Based Materials in Transient Devices and Disposables: Recent Advances Toward Materials and Environmental Sustainability. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:10854-10863. [PMID: 35415330 PMCID: PMC8991899 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c07372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Rising concerns and the associated negative implications of pollution from e-waste and delayed decomposition and mineralization of component materials (e.g., plastics) are significant environmental challenges. Hence, concerted pursuit of accurate and efficient control of the life cycle of materials and subsequent dematerialization in target environments has become essential in recent times. The emerging field of transient technology will play a significant role in this regard to help overcome current environmental challenges by enabling the use of novel approaches and new materials with unique functionalities to produce devices and materials such as disposable diagnostic devices, flexible solar panels, and foldable displays that are more ecologically benign, low-cost, and sustainable. The prerequisites for materials employed in transient devices and disposables include biodegradability, biocompatibility, and the inherent ability to mineralize or dissipate in target environments (e.g., body fluids) in a short lifetime with net-zero impact. Biomaterials such as lignin and keratin are well-known to be among the most promising environmentally benign, functional, sustainable, and industrially applicable resources for transient devices and disposables. Consequently, considering the current environmental concerns, this work focuses on the advances in applying lignin and keratin-based materials in short-life electronics and single-use consumables, current limitations, future research outlook toward materials, and environmental sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austine
Ofondu Chinomso Iroegbu
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre
for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Council for Scientific
& Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Suprakas Sinha Ray
- Department
of Chemical Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Centre
for Nanostructures and Advanced Materials, DSI-CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, Council for Scientific
& Industrial Research, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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7
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Lin S, Ali MU, Zheng C, Cai Z, Wong MH. Toxic chemicals from uncontrolled e-waste recycling: Exposure, body burden, health impact. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127792. [PMID: 34802823 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Uncontrolled electronic-waste (e-waste) recycling processes have induced serious environmental pollution and human health impacts. This paper reviewed studies on the wide range of toxic chemicals through the use of primitive recycling techniques, their transfer to various ecological compartments, and subsequent health impacts. Results indicated that local food items were heavily polluted by the pollutants emitted, notably heavy metals in vegetables, rice, fish and seafood, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in livestock. Dietary exposure is the most important exposure pathway. The associations between exposure to e-waste and high body burdens of these pollutants were evident. It seems apparent that toxic chemicals emitted from e-waste activities are causing a number of major illnesses related to cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems, according to the information provided by a local hospital (Taizhou, an e-waste recycling hot spot in China). More epidemiological data should be made available to the general public. It is envisaged that there are potential dangers of toxic chemicals passing on to the next generation via placental transfer and lactation. There is a need to monitor the development and health impacts of infants and children, born and brought up in the e-waste sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Lin
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Muhammad Ubaid Ali
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chunmiao Zheng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ming Hung Wong
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Integrated Surface Water-Groundwater Pollution Control, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China; Consortium on Health, Environment, Education and Research (CHEER), Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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8
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Gbadebo AM, Alabi OA, Alimba CG, Bakare AA. Metal Bioaccumulation, Cytogenetic and Clinico-Biochemical Alterations in Rattus norvegicus Exposed In Situ to a Municipal Solid Waste Landfill in Lagos, Nigeria. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:1287-1302. [PMID: 34081266 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02758-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed at determining in animal model the health effects of in situ exposure to landfill chemicals. We evaluated metal concentrations in tissues and cytogenetic and clinico-biochemical effects in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) exposed in situ at Olusosun landfill in Lagos, Nigeria. Male rats (n = 30/point) were exposed at three different points to ambient air and underground water (via drinking) at the landfill for 4-, 8-, 12-, 16-, 20- and 24-week periods. Rats concurrently sited at a residential area, 17.3 km from the landfill site served as control. There was significantly (p < 0.05) time-dependent: accumulation of lead, cadmium, chromium, copper and zinc in the liver and kidney and increase in body weight gain, in exposed rats compared to control. There was significant induction of micronuclei and cytotoxicity (reduced PCE/NCE ratios) in exposed rats. Haematological parameters (RBC, PCV, Hb and WBC) and serum biomarkers of hepato-renal damage [aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities; creatinine and urea levels] revealed significant increases. There was significant increase in hepatic levels of reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde, catalase activities, and decrease in superoxide dismutase, at all periods. Chromium and copper concentrations in the liver and kidney revealed significant positive correlations with either one or more of AST, ALT, LDH and urea. Significant metal concentrations in the underground water and tissues suggest that heavy metals are responsible for the observed alterations, and this may have been via oxidative stress. These findings suggest potential health risk due to occupational and residential exposure to landfill pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeyinka M Gbadebo
- Department of Zoology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
- Department of Biological Science, Chrisland University, Owode, , Abeokuta, Nigeria.
| | - Okunola A Alabi
- Department of Biology, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
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9
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Zhang Z, Malik MZ, Khan A, Ali N, Malik S, Bilal M. Environmental impacts of hazardous waste, and management strategies to reconcile circular economy and eco-sustainability. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 807:150856. [PMID: 34627923 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The rise in living standards and the continuous development in the global economy led to the depletion of resources and increased waste generation per capita. This waste might posture a significant threat to human health or the environmental matrices (water, air, soil) when inadequately treated, transported, stored, or managed/disposed of. Therefore, effective waste management in an economically viable and environmentally friendly way has become meaningful. Prominent technology is the need of the day for circular economy and sustainable development to reduce the speed of depletion in resources and produce an alternative means for the future demands in the different sectors of science and technology. In order to meet the potential requirements for energy production or producing secondary raw material, solid waste may be the prime source. The activities of living organisms convert waste products in one form or another in which electronic waste (e-waste) is a modern-day problem that is growing by leaps and bounds. The disposal protocols of the e-waste management need to be given proper attention to avoid its hazardous impacts. The e-waste is obtained from any equipment or devices that run by electricity or batteries like laptops, palmtops, computers, televisions, mobile phones, digital video discs (DVD), and many more. E-waste is one of the rapidly growing causes of world pollution today. Plenty of research is available in the scientific literature, which shows different approaches being set up and followed to manage and dispose of waste products. These strategies to manage waste products designed by the states all over the globe revolves around minimal production, authentic techniques for the management of waste produced, reuse and recycling, etc. The virtual survey of the available literature on waste management shows that it lacks specificity regarding the management of waste products parallel to ecological sustainability. The presented review covers the sources, potential environmental impacts, and highlights the importance of waste management strategies to provide the latest and updated knowledge. The review also put forward the countermeasures that need to be taken on national and International levels addressing the sensitive issue of waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang Province 318000, China
| | - Muhammad Zeeshan Malik
- School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Adnan Khan
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Nisar Ali
- Key Laboratory for Palygorskite Science and Applied Technology of Jiangsu Province, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Deep Utilization Technology of Rock-salt Resource, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, China
| | - Sumeet Malik
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal
- School of Life Science and Food Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, China
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10
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Hussin F, Aroua MK, Szlachta M. Biochar derived from fruit by-products using pyrolysis process for the elimination of Pb(II) ion: An updated review. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 287:132250. [PMID: 34547565 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Water pollution is one of the most concerning global environmental problems in this century with the severity and complexity of the issue increases every day. One of the major contributors to water pollution is the discharge of harmful heavy metal wastes into the rivers and water bodies. Without proper treatment, the release of these harmful inorganic waste would endanger the environment by contaminating the food chains of living organisms, hence, leading to potential health risks to humans. The adsorption method has become one of the cost-effective alternative treatments to eliminate heavy metal ions. Since the type of adsorbent material is the most vital factor that determines the effectiveness of the adsorption, continuous efforts have been made in search of cheap adsorbents derived from a variety of waste materials. Fruit waste can be transformed into valuable products, such as biochar, as they are composed of many functional groups, including carboxylic groups and lignin, which is effective in metal binding. The main objective of this study was to review the potential of various types of fruit wastes as an alternative adsorbent for Pb(II) removal. Following a brief overview of the properties and effects of Pb(II), this study discussed the equilibrium isotherms and adsorption kinetic by various adsorption models. The possible adsorption mechanisms and regeneration study for Pb(II) removal were also elaborated in detail to provide a clear understanding of biochar produced using the pyrolysis technique. The future prospects of fruit waste as an adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II) was also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farihahusnah Hussin
- Research Centre for Carbon Dioxide Capture and Utilisation (CCDCU), School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, No. 5 Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Mohamed Kheireddine Aroua
- Research Centre for Carbon Dioxide Capture and Utilisation (CCDCU), School of Engineering and Technology, Sunway University, No. 5 Jalan Universiti, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Engineering, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YW, UK
| | - Małgorzata Szlachta
- Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland; Geological Survey of Finland, P.O. Box 96, FI-02151, Espoo, Finland
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11
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Parvez SM, Jahan F, Brune MN, Gorman JF, Rahman MJ, Carpenter D, Islam Z, Rahman M, Aich N, Knibbs LD, Sly PD. Health consequences of exposure to e-waste: an updated systematic review. Lancet Planet Health 2021; 5:e905-e920. [PMID: 34895498 PMCID: PMC8674120 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(21)00263-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) contains numerous chemicals harmful to human and ecological health. To update a 2013 review assessing adverse human health consequences of exposure to e-waste, we systematically reviewed studies reporting effects on humans related to e-waste exposure. We searched EMBASE, PsycNET, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PubMed for articles published between Dec 18, 2012, and Jan 28, 2020, restricting our search to publications in English. Of the 5645 records identified, we included 70 studies that met the preset criteria. People living in e-waste exposed regions had significantly elevated levels of heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. Children and pregnant women were especially susceptible during the critical periods of exposure that detrimentally affect diverse biological systems and organs. Elevated toxic chemicals negatively impact on neonatal growth indices and hormone level alterations in e-waste exposed populations. We recorded possible connections between chronic exposure to e-waste and DNA lesions, telomere attrition, inhibited vaccine responsiveness, elevated oxidative stress, and altered immune function. The existence of various toxic chemicals in e-waste recycling areas impose plausible adverse health outcomes. Novel cost-effective methods for safe recycling operations need to be employed in e-waste sites to ensure the health and safety of vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarker M Parvez
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Farjana Jahan
- Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Marie-Noel Brune
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julia F Gorman
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Musarrat J Rahman
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Zahir Islam
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nirupam Aich
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Luke D Knibbs
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter D Sly
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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12
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Huang W, Shi X, Wu K. Human Body Burden of Heavy Metals and Health Consequences of Pb Exposure in Guiyu, an E-Waste Recycling Town in China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312428. [PMID: 34886154 PMCID: PMC8657058 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Guiyu accommodates millions of tons of e-waste from overseas and domestic sources each year and is notorious for its e-waste dismantling industry. As a consequence, Guiyu has been described as "the world's most toxic place" and "junk town". Informal e-waste recycling activities have caused severe pollution to the local environment and are associated with extensive health problems to the residents. This review provides updated insights on the body burden of heavy metals derived from e-waste and health outcomes resulted from lead (Pb) exposure. The review identified that Guiyu has been highly contaminated by heavy metals, especially Pb. Excessive exposure to Pb has been associated with multi-system and long-term effects in neonates and children, covering nervous, cardiovascular, adaptive immune, and hematologic systems as well as chromosome and DNA damage. Our review indicates strong associations that emphasize the need to develop strong regulations for prevention of exposure and health consequences in Guiyu and similar sites around the world.
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13
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A review of emerging PFAS contaminants: sources, fate, health risks, and a comprehensive assortment of recent sorbents for PFAS treatment by evaluating their mechanism. RESEARCH ON CHEMICAL INTERMEDIATES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11164-021-04603-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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14
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E-waste management: A review of recycling process, environmental and occupational health hazards, and potential solutions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.enmm.2020.100409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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15
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Environmental contamination and public health effects of electronic waste: an overview. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2021; 19:1209-1227. [PMID: 34150306 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-021-00654-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Purpose In recent years, electronic waste has become the fastest growing waste stream globally with potential deleterious environmental and public health effects from its hazardous constituents. This review aims at providing an up-to-date information on the environmental and public health effects of e- wastes, and also identify research gaps that could form basis of further innovative studies on this important subject. Methods We carried out literature survey using several search engines. All available literature which reported directly on environmental contamination of air, soil, and water by e-wastes, and their effects on exposed plants, animals, and humans were used in other to generate an updated information. Results High production volume coupled with indiscriminate disposal and informal recycling has made electronic waste (e-waste) to become a global public and environmental health issue. E-waste is made up of different hazardous substances such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants with the capacity to contaminate the environment if processed or recycled inappropriately. Humans and animals become exposed to e-waste constituents via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. Several health effects have been linked to e-wastes. The most susceptible were children, pregnant women, and workers in primitive recycling sites. Generation of e-waste is predicted to increase drastically in the next decade with the potential complex interactive effects of its constituents. Conclusion This review is an up-to-date assessment of studies and reports on e-waste environmental contamination and public health effects. The review has shown that e-waste contains constituents that caused adverse environmental effects and toxicity to the biota. However, there is an enormous data gap between exposure quantification and possible health effects. More studies are needed to elucidate and provide holistic information on environmental and public health dangers posed by e-waste constituents.
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16
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Chen D, Faibil D, Agyemang M. Evaluating critical barriers and pathways to implementation of e-waste formalization management systems in Ghana: a hybrid BWM and fuzzy TOPSIS approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:44561-44584. [PMID: 32772292 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10360-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The majority of developing countries are facing enormous challenges in implementing sustainable waste electrical and electronic equipment (e-waste) management systems. Informal e-waste management practices in Ghana have become a critical challenge to the government and the various stakeholders owing to its environmental and health impacts. However, the effort to implement e-waste formalization management practices has been threatened with many barriers. This study aims to identify and evaluate barriers and pathways to the implementation of e-waste formalization management systems in Ghana. A three-phase methodology consisting of the Delphi method, the hybrid best-worst method and the fuzzy TOPSIS technique is employed. The first phase involves extensive literature review and the use of the Delphi method to identify barriers, pathways, and data collection for e-waste formalization. In the second phase, the best-worst method was employed to analyze the relative weight and ranking of the barriers. The third phase involves the application of fuzzy TOPSIS to rank and prioritize pathways to e-waste formalization systems. Fuzzy logic was applied to handle the subjectivity of decision-makers' preferences. A sensitivity analysis was carried out to check the robustness of the framework and address any effect of bias. The outcome of the study indicates that economic and financial limitations are the most significant barriers to e-waste formalization. "Setting up resourced environmental government agencies for effective monitoring and auditing at the regional levels for appropriate e-waste management practices" is the most prominent pathway. The present study can potentially inform policy makers to develop systematic and strategic policies for the implementation of e-waste formalization management systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehu Chen
- School of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Daniel Faibil
- School of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Martin Agyemang
- New Huadu Business School, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
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17
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Li W, Achal V. Environmental and health impacts due to e-waste disposal in China - A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 737:139745. [PMID: 32516663 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
E-waste is discarded and shipped mostly to developing countries located in Asian continent for disposal from other developed countries. Especially 70% of the world's e-waste ends up in Guiyu, a small town located in Guangdong Province of China. As little as 25% is recycled in formal recycling centers with adequate protection for workers and the other e-waste arrived in those areas is not handled in organized manner. As per reports only roughly 12.5% of e-waste is actually recycled, and the recycling efforts in those regions are primitive and result in toxic substances being leached into the surrounding ecosystems. In addition to persistent organic pollutants, there are many heavy metals found in the ground and river sediments in Guiyu, exceeding the threshold set to protect human health. Those areas are no longer suitable for growing food, and water is unsafe for drinking, due to the amount of toxins leached into the groundwater and land. Hazardous threats to environment and human health due to hazardous substances of e-waste all around China, as well as the current e-waste management were documented in this review. The article concludes with controlled contamination sources, and eco-friendly and efficient remediation technologies to solve e-waste problem in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weila Li
- Environmental Engineering Program, Guangdong Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Shantou 515063, China; Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Varenyam Achal
- Environmental Engineering Program, Guangdong Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Shantou 515063, China; Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel.
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18
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Zeng X, Huo X, Xu X, Liu D, Wu W. E-waste lead exposure and children's health in China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 734:139286. [PMID: 32460072 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
China is one of the countries worldwide confronted with serious e-waste pollution and associated detrimental health effects, which has aroused public, academic and governmental concerns. Most local residents are exposed to hazardous substances such as lead (Pb) and other persistent organic pollutants because of informal e-waste recycling activities. This study reviews recent studies on children exposed to e-waste Pb in China focusing on health-related effects in children (e.g. growth and development, cardiovascular, immune, nervous, respiratory, reproductive, skeletal, and urinary systems) and evaluating the evidence for the association between e-waste Pb exposure and the children health outcomes in China. Children are one of most sensitive and vulnerable groups when facing e-waste Pb exposure. Previous data indicate that exposure to e-waste Pb has adverse effect on human health such as delayed and damaged physical and nervous development. It is the time to take effective measures, such as upgrading e-waste recycling technology, enhancing government policy guidance and support, and strengthening environmental protection and health awareness of the local inhabitants, to prevent the adverse effects of e-waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Dongling Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Weidong Wu
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
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19
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Wang Q, Xu X, Zeng Z, Zheng X, Ye K, Huo X. Antioxidant alterations link polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons to blood pressure in children. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 732:138944. [PMID: 32434106 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.138944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is associated with changes in blood pressure. However, the association is controversial in different studies, and antioxidants' roles involved in it remain unclear. To investigate the associations among PAH exposure, blood pressure, and antioxidant concentrations, we recruited 403 children (2-7 years old), of which 203 were from Guiyu, an e-waste-recycling area (exposed group), and 200 were from Haojiang, a nearby non-e-waste area (reference group). Levels of blood pressure, plasma vitamin E, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD), serum glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and eight urinary hydroxylated PAHs (OH-PAHs) were measured. Compared with Haojiang children, Guiyu children had higher urinary OH-PAH concentrations but lower systolic pressure, pulse pressure, serum SOD concentration, and serum GPx concentration (all P < 0.05). PAH exposure was associated with lower systolic pressure, pulse pressure, SOD (adjusted β = -0.091, -0.104 and -0.154, respectively, all P < 0.05, in all children), GPx (adjusted β∑7LMW-OH-PAHs-T3 = -0.332, only in Haojiang children) and vitamin E (adjusted OR∑7LMW-OH-PAHs = 0.838, 95% CI: 0.706, 0.995, only in Guiyu children). Serum SOD and GPx were associated with higher blood pressure (βSOD-T2 for diastolic pressure = 0.215 in all children, βSOD-T3 for systolic pressure = 0.193 in all children, βSOD-T3 for pulse pressure = 0.281 in high-∑8OH-PAHs children, βGPx-T2 = 0.283 and βGPx-T3 = 0.289 for diastolic pressure in Haojiang children, all P < 0.05). Interactions between PAHs and vitamin E were associated with lower systolic pressure and pulse pressure; simple effects of vitamin E to raise systolic pressure and pulse pressure were only significant in low-∑8OH-PAHs children. Our results indicate that PAH exposure, especially at high levels, and further antioxidant-decrease are potential risk factors for blood-pressure decrease in children; vascular function of PAH-exposed children may be impaired, manifesting as disordered blood pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihua Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Kai Ye
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China.
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20
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Farshchi Tabrizi F, Dunker M, Hiller A, Beckmann M. Maximizing HBr/Br 2 in the flue gas and prevention of secondary pollution during the oxy-combustion of brominated waste electrical and electronic equipment part 1- thermodynamic considerations. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 263:114410. [PMID: 33618466 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114410] [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: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Organobromine compounds comprise between 3 and 8% by weight of WEEE and mainly converted to HBr and Br2 in the incinerator. However, these compounds, during the cooling of the flue gases, can form the PBDD/Fs in the post-combustion area of the furnace. Due to the many benefits of Oxy-combustion process, our group has developed a fluidised bed incinerator for burning the WEEE and plan to maximise HBr/Br2 in the flue gas. Experimental results presented in the recent papers show that the combustion of the WEEE particles attains quickly to thermodynamic equilibrium. Thermodynamic modelling can, therefore, predict the concentration of brominated pollutants, particularly HBr, Br2, HgBr2, and Br˙ in the flue gas. In this paper, the effect of various parameters for increasing the HBr/Br2 ratio in the flue gas has been investigated. The model shows that the addition of very small amounts of hydrogen in the post-combustion area can convert Br2 and Br˙ into HBr.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farshad Farshchi Tabrizi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Shiraz University, 7134851154, Shiraz, Iran; Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Martin Dunker
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Andreas Hiller
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Michael Beckmann
- Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062, Dresden, Germany.
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21
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Luo J, Cao M, Zhang C, Wu J, Gu XWS. The influence of light combination on the physicochemical characteristics and enzymatic activity of soil with multi-metal pollution in phytoremediation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 393:122406. [PMID: 32172059 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.122406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Light irradiation with suitable quality and intensity could influence the success of phytoremediation by improving the biomass yield of plants. However, mechanisms involved in this influence on the contaminant accumulation and translocation ability of plants have rarely been studied. Five light combinations with different red (R) and blue (B) ratios (0, 10, 50, 75 and 100 % blue) at the same intensity (220 μmol m-2 s-1) were used to assist phytoremediation using Noccaea caerulescens, and the change in physicochemical characteristics and enzymatic activities of soils after phytoremediation were evaluated. Compared with the control, the light combinations and monochromic blue light significantly increased the activities of soil ureases, invertases, and phosphatases, whereas monochromic red light strongly inhibited the activities of these enzymes, because different light irradiations altered the formation and excretion of carbohydrates from plants for soil microorganism consumption. Plants under B50R50 treatment accumulated the highest concentrations of metals, but their chlorophyll concentrations and lipid peroxidation were similar to those other species with lower metal concentrations. Hence, light with a proper blue/red ratio can simultaneously improve the physicochemical characteristics and enzymatic activities of soils, increase the metal uptake capacity and oxidation resistance of plants, and reduce the leaching risk during phytoremediation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Luo
- KLETOR Ministry of Education, Yangtze University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Min Cao
- University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, United Kingdom
| | - Chunming Zhang
- KLETOR Ministry of Education, Yangtze University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Wu
- China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - X W Sophie Gu
- The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Wang K, Qian J, Liu L. Understanding Environmental Pollutions of Informal E-Waste Clustering in Global South via Multi-Scalar Regulatory Frameworks: A Case Study of Guiyu Town, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17082802. [PMID: 32325760 PMCID: PMC7215866 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17082802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The recycling of e-waste by the informal sector has brought countries in the Global South raw materials (e.g. metals and plastics), second-hand electronic equipment and components, and economic opportunities in conjunction with appalling environmental pollutions and health problems. Despite the longstanding international and national legislation regulating transnational trade and domestic recycling, informal e-waste economies are still clustering in many Global South countries. This study offers historically and geographically specific explanations of this conundrum, by interrogating the multi-scalar regulatory frameworks in which the informal e-waste economies and their pollutions are embedded, by drawing on China, particularly the former global e-waste hub-Guiyu town, as the case study. We argue that the contested and problematic application of current international and national legislation in regulating e-waste is in part pertaining to the slippery definition of what counts as “e-waste” and its paradoxical nature as both resources and pollutants. At the global scale, trajectories of global e-waste flows are shaped by the multitude of loopholes, contradictions and ambiguous articles left by the Basel Convention and by different countries’ disparate attitudes towards the e-waste trade. At the national scale, the ambiguities and contradictions in the Basel Convention have been passed on to and shaped China’s national e-waste regulatory frameworks. China’s equivocal legislation, paradoxical attitude, and formal enterprises’ weak competence contribute to the rise of informal e-waste recycling in Guiyu. Yet, China’s e-waste regime has been greatly restructured within the past decade, with formal recycling enterprises playing an increasingly significant role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wang
- Department of Geography and Resource Management, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Junxi Qian
- Department of Geography, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lixiong Liu
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China
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23
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Health Consequences for E-Waste Workers and Bystanders-A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051534. [PMID: 32120921 PMCID: PMC7084368 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Informal e-waste recycling is associated with several health hazards. Thus far, the main focus of research in the e-waste sector has been to assess the exposure site, such as the burden of heavy metals or organic pollutants. The aim of this study was to comprehensively assess the health consequences associated with informal e-waste recycling. A questionnaire-based assessment regarding occupational information, medical history, and current symptoms and complaints was carried out with a group of n = 84 e-waste workers and compared to a control cohort of n = 94 bystanders at the e-waste recycling site Agbogbloshie. E-waste workers suffered significantly more from work-related injuries, back pain, and red itchy eyes in comparison to the control group. In addition, regular drug use was more common in e-waste workers (25% vs. 6.4%). Both groups showed a noticeable high use of pain killers (all workers 79%). The higher frequency of symptoms in the e-waste group can be explained by the specific recycling tasks, such as burning or dismantling. However, the report also indicates that adverse health effects apply frequently to the control group. Occupational safety trainings and the provision of personal protection equipment are needed for all workers.
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Street RA, Mathee A, Tanda S, Hauzenberger C, Naidoo S, Goessler W. Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal cookware in the informal sector: A public health threat from multi metal exposure in South Africa. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 699:134324. [PMID: 33736189 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recycling of scrap metal into artisanal cookware is widespread in poorly resourced countries. The aim of the study was to determine the risk of metal exposure from the use of artisanal cookware available in South Africa. Twenty cookware samples were purchased from local manufacturers and informal traders across South Africa. Aluminum and silicon concentrations were determined using XRF and the total content of 18 elements (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, V and Zn) were evaluated using ICPMS. Leaching of metals from cut pieces of cookware over a 2-h period of boiling in a 3% acetic acid solution was repeated 3 times and revealed multi-metal migration that was compared to EU maximum permissible levels. The mean Al migration of 509 mg L-1 was over 100 times the EU maximum permissible level allowed for cookware. Lead was detected in all samples with 11 (55%), 12 (60%) and 9 (45%) of samples being over the maximum EU permissible level (10 μg Pb L-1) for 1st, 2nd and 3rd migrations respectively. The mean As migration concentrations in the first leaching event ranged from 0.23 to 24.1 μg L-1 with four pots (20%) over the maximum EU permissible limit for As (2 μg L-1). Notably, all four pots were well below the maximum EU permissible As limit by the 3rd migration. Cadmium and mercury were detected in each pot across all three migrations however the levels were relatively low. Transmission electron microscopy revealed dramatic changes in surface structure after leaching of cookware.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée A Street
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; University of KwaZulu-Natal, Discipline of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Angela Mathee
- Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, South Africa; School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Stefan Tanda
- University of Graz, Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment, Universitaetsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Christoph Hauzenberger
- University of Graz, NAWI Graz Geocenter, Institute of Earth Sciences, Universitaetsplatz 2, Graz A-8010, Austria
| | - Saloshni Naidoo
- University of KwaZulu-Natal, Discipline of Public Health Medicine, School of Nursing and Public Health, Durban, South Africa
| | - Walter Goessler
- University of Graz, Institute of Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry for Health and Environment, Universitaetsplatz 1, 8010 Graz, Austria
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Kumar S, Sharma A, Kshetrimayum C. Environmental & occupational exposure & female reproductive dysfunction. Indian J Med Res 2019; 150:532-545. [PMID: 32048617 PMCID: PMC7038808 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_1652_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
All individuals are exposed to certain chemical, physical, biological, environmental as well as occupational factors. The data pertaining to role of these factors on female reproduction are scanty as compared to male. The available data suggest the adverse effects of certain toxicants, viz., metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury, pesticides such as bis(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane and organic solvent such as benzene, toluene and ionizing radiation on the female reproductive system affecting directly the organ system or impacting in directly through hormonal impairments, molecular alterations, oxidative stress and DNA methylation impairing fertility as well as pregnancy and its outcomes. Thus, there is a need for awareness and prevention programme about the adverse effects of these factors and deterioration of female reproductive health, pregnancy outcome and offspring development as some of these chemicals might affect the developing foetus at very low doses by endocrine disruptive mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Kumar
- Division of Reproductive & Cyto-toxicology, ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Anupama Sharma
- Division of Reproductive & Cyto-toxicology, ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Chaoba Kshetrimayum
- Division of Reproductive & Cyto-toxicology, ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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Kim S, Xu X, Zhang Y, Zheng X, Liu R, Dietrich K, Reponen T, Ho SM, Xie C, Sucharew H, Huo X, Chen A. Metal concentrations in pregnant women and neonates from informal electronic waste recycling. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2019; 29:406-415. [PMID: 30111780 PMCID: PMC6377357 DOI: 10.1038/s41370-018-0054-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) is the fastest growing solid waste stream worldwide and mostly ends up in developing countries where residents use primitive methods for recycling. The most infamous e-waste recycling town, Guiyu in Southeast China, has been recycling since the mid-1990s. E-waste contains several harmful chemicals, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and manganese (Mn). In 2011-12, the e-waste Recycling Exposures and Community Health (e-REACH) Study enrolled 634 pregnant women living in Guiyu and Haojiang, a control site, both in Shantou, China. The women completed a questionnaire and gave maternal blood, cord blood, and maternal urine, which were analyzed for Pb, Cd, Cr, and Mn. Maternal blood Pb, Cd, and Cr concentrations were significantly higher in Guiyu compared to Haojiang. In Guiyu, the geometric mean of Pb concentration in maternal blood was 6.66 µg/dL (range: 1.87-27.09 µg/dL) and was 1.74-fold greater than in Haojiang (95% CI: 1.60, 1.89). In cord blood, Pb concentration was 1.53-fold higher in Guiyu (95% CI: 1.38, 1.68). In maternal urine, Cd (ratio: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.72, 2.69) and Mn (ratio: 2.60, 95% CI: 2.04, 3.31) concentrations were significantly higher in Guiyu in comparison to Haojiang. In conclusion, pregnant women in Guiyu were at risk for increased exposure to heavy metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephani Kim
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease and Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease and Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease and Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Rongju Liu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease and Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Kim Dietrich
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Changchun Xie
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Heidi Sucharew
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Xia Huo
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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Ohajinwa CM, van Bodegom PM, Osibanjo O, Xie Q, Chen J, Vijver MG, Peijnenburg WJGM. Health Risks of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and Metals at Informal Electronic Waste Recycling Sites. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E906. [PMID: 30871202 PMCID: PMC6466049 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16060906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Concerns about the adverse public health consequences of informal electronic waste (e-waste) recycling are increasing. This study adopted a cross-sectional study design to gain insights into health risks (cancer and non-cancer risks) associated with exposure to e-waste chemicals among informal e-waste workers via three main routes: Dermal contact, ingestion, and inhalation. The e-waste chemicals (PBDE and metals) were measured in the dust and top soils at e-waste sites (burning, dismantling, and repair sites). Adverse health risks were calculated using the EPA model developed by the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States. The concentrations of the e-waste chemicals and the health risks at the e-waste sites increased as the intensity of the e-waste recycling activities increased: control sites < repair sites < dismantling sites < burning sites. Dermal contact was the main route of exposure while exposure via inhalation was negligible for both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks. Cumulative health risks via all routes of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact) exceeded the acceptable limits of both non-cancer effects and cancer risk at all e-waste sites. This indicates that overall the e-waste workers are at the risk of adverse health effects. Therefore, the importance of occupational safety programs and management regulations for e-waste workers cannot be over emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chimere May Ohajinwa
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Peter M van Bodegom
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Oladele Osibanjo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200284, Nigeria.
| | - Qing Xie
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
| | - Jingwen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
| | - Martina G Vijver
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Willie J G M Peijnenburg
- Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, P.O. Box 9518, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands.
- Center for Safety of Substances and Products, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3721 Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
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Wang Y, Sun X, Fang L, Li K, Yang P, Du L, Ji K, Wang J, Liu Q, Xu C, Li G, Giesy JP, Hecker M. Genomic instability in adult men involved in processing electronic waste in Northern China. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 117:69-81. [PMID: 29727754 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Managing and recycling electronic waste (e-waste), while useful and necessary, has resulted in significant contamination of several environments in China. The area around Tianjin, China has become one of the world's largest e-waste disposal centers, where electronics are processed by manually disassembly or burning, which can result in serious exposure of workers to a multitude of toxicants. OBJECTIVE The present study assessed potential genomic damage in workers involved in recycling e-waste. METHODS To detect cytogenetic and DNA damage, chromosomal aberrations (CA), cytokinesis blocking micronucleus (CBMN) and the comet assay were performed. Concentrations of some trace elements, markers of oxidative stress and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in whole blood or serum were measured, and relationships among the markers described above, age, and duration of exposure were analyzed. The profiles of expression of genes in lymphocytes in peripheral blood were assessed to determine the status of the regulation of genes involved in genome stability. RESULTS Concentrations of 28 PCB congeners in the whole blood of the exposed group were significantly (P<0.001) greater than those in the control individuals. Frequency of CA (8.01%) and CBMN (26.3‰) in lymphocytes and the level of DNA damage in the lymphocytes and spermatozoa of the exposed men were also significantly (P<0.0001) greater than those of the controls. There were significant relationships between CA, CBMN, DNA damage and duration of exposure. Concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and lead (Pb) in the blood serum were significantly greater, but activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and concentrations of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) were lower in the serum of the exposed men. MDA, Pb, Ca and Mg were associated with the duration of exposure to handling e-waste. In males involved in handling of e-waste, there were 13 genes - ATM, ATR, ABL1, CHEK1, CHEK2, GADD45A, CDK7, GTSE1, OGG1, DDB1, PRKDC, XRCC1 and CCNH - for which expression of mRNA was up-regulated and 7 genes - BRCA1, GTF2H1, SEMA4A, MRE11A, MUTYH, PNKP and RAD50 - for which the expression of mRNA was down-regulated. CONCLUSIONS A strong correlation between indicators of damage of DNA, which could result in instability of the genome, and duration of processing e-waste was observed. If proper procedures are not followed, there are significant risks to the health of the individuals involved in such activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohui Sun
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Lianying Fang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Keqiu Li
- Department of Biology at Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ping Yang
- Tianjin Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Science, Tianjin, China
| | - Liqing Du
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Kaihua Ji
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinhan Wang
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China.
| | - Chang Xu
- Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Molecular Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin, China.
| | - Guang Li
- Department of Biology at Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China.
| | - John P Giesy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada; Department of Zoology, and Center for Integrative Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Markus Hecker
- School of the Environment & Sustainability and Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
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Li N, Chen XW, Deng WJ, Giesy JP, Zheng HL. PBDEs and Dechlorane Plus in the environment of Guiyu, Southeast China: A historical location for E-waste recycling (2004, 2014). CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 199:603-611. [PMID: 29459350 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.02.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs, tri-to hepta-BDEs) and Dechlorane Plus (DP) in multiple samples (soil, sediment, road dust, and PM2.5 particles) in historical locations of our previous work in Guiyu (electronic-waste recycling town) in southeastern China were investigated in 2014. Ten years later, PBDEs and DP were detected in 100% of the samples. Ʃ3-7PBDEs were still relatively great, ranging from 1.2 × 101 to 2.1 × 103 ng/g dry weight (dw) in soil, 2.1 to 3.2 × 103 ng/g dw in sediment, 1.0 × 101 to 1.1 × 104 ng/g dw in road dust, which were a little less than or close to those measured in 2004. However, Ʃ3-7PBDEs in PM2.5 (5.0 × 102 to 8.4 × 102 pg/m3) were significantly lower in 2014. BDE-47, -99, -153, and -183 were predominant congeners, which were also predominant PBDEs reported in Guiyu (2006-2008). Greater proportions of lesser-brominated BDEs were predominant in PM2.5 than other samples. DP was detected in 100% of the samples collected with high levels. Total syn-DP and anti-DP concentrations were 3.8 to 2.1 × 103 ng/g dw in soil, 1.1 × 103 to 7.2 × 103 ng/g dw in sediment, 1.4 × 101 to 1.1 × 103 ng/g dw in road dust, and 1.8 × 102 and 1.7 × 102 pg/m3 in PM2.5. Most of the fractions of anti-DP (fanti) (70%-80%) were consistent among samples. The health risk assessment showed that hazard indexes (HIs) of PBDEs or DPs for child or adult were all lower than 0.16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, 10 Lo Ping Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong
| | - Xun-Wen Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Wen-Jing Deng
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, 10 Lo Ping Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong.
| | - John P Giesy
- Dept. Veterinary Biomedical Sciences & Toxicology Program Faculty, Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Canada; School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Pollution Reference and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hai-Long Zheng
- Department of Soil and Groundwater Remediation, Newgroup Environmental Co.,Ltd, Nanshan, Shenzhen, 518053, People's Republic of China
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Díaz Martínez ME, Argumedo-Delira R, Sánchez Viveros G, Alarcón A, Trejo-Téllez LI. Lead phytoextraction from printed circuit computer boards by Lolium perenne L. and Medicago sativa L. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2018; 20:432-439. [PMID: 29053342 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2017.1365339] [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] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This work assessed the ability of Lolium perenne and Medicago sativa for extracting lead (Pb) from particulate printed circuit computer boards (PCB) mixed in sand with the following concentrations: 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g of PCB, and including a control treatment without PCB. The PCB were obtained from computers, and grinded in two particle sizes: 0.0594 mm (PCB1) and 0.0706 mm (PCB2). The PCB particle sizes at their corresponding concentrations were applied to L. perenne and M. sativa by using three experimental assays. In assay II, PCB2 affected the biomass production for both plants. For assay III, the PCB1 increased the biomass of M. sativa (236.5%) and L. perenne (142.2%) when applying either 0.5 or 1.0 g, respectively. In regards to phytoextraction, assay I showed the highest Pb-extraction by roots of L. perenne (4.7%) when exposed to 1.5 g of PCB1. At assay I, L. perenne showed a Pb-bioconcentration factor higher than 1.0 when growing at 0.5 g of PCB1, and when HNO3 was used as digestion solution; moreover, in assay III both plants showed a Pb-translocation factor higher than 1.0. Therefore, Lolium perenne and Medicago sativa are able to recover Pb from electronic wastes (PCB).
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Affiliation(s)
- María Esther Díaz Martínez
- a Posgrado en Ciencias Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Veracruzana. Circuito Gonzalo Aguirre Beltrán s/n , Xalapa , Veracruz , México
| | - Rosalba Argumedo-Delira
- a Posgrado en Ciencias Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Veracruzana. Circuito Gonzalo Aguirre Beltrán s/n , Xalapa , Veracruz , México
- b Biotecnología Microbiana, Unidad de Servicios de Apoyo en Resolución Analítica (SARA), Universidad Veracruzana. Luis Castelazo Ayala s/n, Col. Industrial Animas , Xalapa , Veracruz , México
| | - Gabriela Sánchez Viveros
- a Posgrado en Ciencias Agropecuarias, Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Veracruzana. Circuito Gonzalo Aguirre Beltrán s/n , Xalapa , Veracruz , México
| | - Alejandro Alarcón
- c Microbiología de Suelos and Nutrición Vegetal, Posgrado de Edafología. Colegio de Postgraduados . Carretera México-Texcoco km 36.5. Montecillo, Estado de México
| | - Libia Iris Trejo-Téllez
- c Microbiología de Suelos and Nutrición Vegetal, Posgrado de Edafología. Colegio de Postgraduados . Carretera México-Texcoco km 36.5. Montecillo, Estado de México
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Liu L, Zhang B, Lin K, Zhang Y, Xu X, Huo X. Thyroid disruption and reduced mental development in children from an informal e-waste recycling area: A mediation analysis. CHEMOSPHERE 2018; 193:498-505. [PMID: 29156335 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.11.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 11/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This paper aims to evaluate the effects of thyroid disruption on the mental development of children. A total of 258 three-year-old children in Guiyu (e-waste-exposed group) and Nanao (reference group), China were examined. FT3, FT4, TSH, lead (BPb) and cadmium (BCd) in blood were determined, and cognitive and language scores of children were assessed based on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development III. Stepwise multiple regression was used to estimate the relationship between heavy metals and cognitive and language scores; mediation analysis was performed to determine whether thyroid disruption was mechanistically involved. Medians of BPb and BCd in Guiyu were higher than that of Nanao (11.30 ± 5.38 vs. 5.77 ± 2.51 μg/dL BPb; 1.22 ± 0.55 vs. 0.72 ± 0.37 μg/L BCd, both p < 0.001). Means of FT4 and TSH in Guiyu were also higher than those in Nanao (16.65 ± 1.83 vs.16.06 ± 1.66 pmol/L FT4, p = 0.007; 2.79 ± 1.30 vs. 2.21 ± 1.43 mIU/L TSH, p = 0.001). Guiyu children had lower cognitive scores (100.00 ± 25.00 vs. 120.00 ± 20.00, p < 0.001) and lower language scores (99.87 ± 7.52 vs. 111.39 ± 7.02, p < 0.001). Mediation analysis showed that Pb negatively correlated with both cognitive and language scores (both p < 0.001). However, FT3, FT4 and TSH did not significantly mediate the relationship between Pb and mental development of children (all p > 0.05). In contrast, Cd correlated with neither cognitive nor language scores (both p > 0.05). Results suggest exposure to heavy metal (Pb) reduces cognitive and language skills, and affects thyroid function, but fail to confirm that thyroid disruption is involved in the neurotoxicity induced by PbCd co-exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Liu
- Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Kun Lin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xia Huo
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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Zhang Y, Xu X, Chen A, Davuljigari CB, Zheng X, Kim SS, Dietrich KN, Ho SM, Reponen T, Huo X. Maternal urinary cadmium levels during pregnancy associated with risk of sex-dependent birth outcomes from an e-waste pollution site in China. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 75:49-55. [PMID: 29154917 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study was to investigate whether exposure to cadmium (Cd) during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of adverse birth outcomes in a sex-dependent manner. Cd concentrations in maternal urine (U-Cd) samples were measured in 237 subjects from Guiyu (e-waste area) and 212 subjects from Haojiang. A significance level of p <0.05 was used for all analyses. The maternal U-Cd levels in Guiyu residents were significantly higher than Haojiang. We found significant inverse associations between U-Cd concentrations and birth anthropometry (birth weight, birth length, Head Circumference and Apgar scores with 1min and 5 mins) in female neonates, but no significant associations were observed in male neonates except Apgar (1min) score after adjustment. The association was more pronounced among female neonates than male neonates, suggesting an association between Cd and adverse birth outcomes may be sex-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Departments of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Chand Basha Davuljigari
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Stephani S Kim
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Kim N Dietrich
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangzhou and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China.
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Yang H, Ma M, Thompson JR, Flower RJ. Waste management, informal recycling, environmental pollution and public health. J Epidemiol Community Health 2017; 72:237-243. [PMID: 29222091 DOI: 10.1136/jech-2016-208597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
With rapid population growth, especially in low-income and middle-income countries, the generation of waste is increasing at an unprecedented rate. For example, annual global waste arising from waste electrical and electronic equipment alone will have increased from 33.8 to 49.8 million tonnes between 2010 and 2018. Despite incineration and other waste treatment techniques, landfill still dominates waste disposal in low-income and middle-income countries. There is usually insufficient funding for adequate waste management in these countries and uptake of more advanced waste treatment technologies is poor. Without proper management, many landfills represent serious hazards as typified by the landslide in Shenzhen, China on 20 December 2015. In addition to formal waste recycling systems, approximately 15million people around the world are involved in informal waste recycling, mainly for plastics, metals, glass and paper. This review examines emerging public health challenges, in particular within low-income and middle-income countries, associated with the informal sector. While informal recyclers contribute to waste recycling and reuse, the relatively primitive techniques they employ, combined with improper management of secondary pollutants, exacerbate environmental pollution of air, soil and water. Even worse, insufficient occupational health measures expose informal waste workers to a range of pollutants, injuries, respiratory and dermatological problems, infections and other serious health issues that contribute to low life expectancy. Integration of the informal sector with its formal counterparts could improve waste management while addressing these serious health and livelihood issues. Progress in this direction has already been made notably in several Latin American countries where integrating the informal and formal sectors has had a positive influence on both waste management and poverty alleviation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yang
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Remote Sensing Big Data Application, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Karst Environment, School of Geographical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | - Mingguo Ma
- Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Remote Sensing Big Data Application, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Karst Environment, School of Geographical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | | | - Roger J Flower
- UCL Department of Geography, University College London, London, UK
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Al-Anzi BS, Al-Burait AA, Thomas A, Ong CS. Assessment and modeling of E-waste generation based on growth rate from different telecom companies in the State of Kuwait. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:27160-27174. [PMID: 28963685 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0190-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The present work assesses the production rate of cell phone e-waste in Kuwait by comparing the number of clients in three telecommunication service providers like Zain, Ooredoo, and Viva in the state of Kuwait over a period of 7 years from 2008 to 2015. An online survey was conducted to evaluate the growth in the number of clients in three cell phone companies, and the data analysis was carried out using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) software. The prediction of the growth percentage of the number of clients in each telecommunication company was analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and followed by the regression model. The study shows that there is an increase in the number of clients in all three companies (Zain, Ooredoo, and Viva) between year 2008 and 2015, and it was estimated that approximately 7.9 million cell phone users would be achieved in the first quarter of 2015. Based on this predicted number of cell phone users, the production of e-waste would be 3 kt per year with an average growth of 12.7%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bader S Al-Anzi
- Department of Environmental Technology Management, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait.
| | - Abdul Aziz Al-Burait
- Department of Environmental Technology Management, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Ashly Thomas
- Department of Environmental Technology Management, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Chi Siang Ong
- Department of Environmental Technology Management, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Alabi AO, Bakare AA. Genetic damage induced by electronic waste leachates and contaminated underground water in two prokaryotic systems. Toxicol Mech Methods 2017; 27:657-665. [PMID: 28670935 DOI: 10.1080/15376516.2017.1349228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The inappropriate and unsafe management practices related to disposal and recycling of electronic wastes in Nigeria has led to environmental and underground water contamination. Reports on the level and type of contamination as well as the possible DNA damage effects of this contamination are insufficient. This study evaluated the DNA damaging potential of e-waste simulated and raw leachates, and its contaminated underground water using the SOS chromotest on Escherichia coli PQ37 and the Ames Salmonella fluctuation test on Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100, without and with metabolic activation. Physico-chemical parameters of the samples were also analyzed. The result of the Ames test showed induction of base pair substitution and frameshift mutation by the test samples. However, the TA100 was the more responsive strain for the three samples in terms of mutagenic index in the absence and presence of metabolic activation. The SOS chromotest results were in agreement with those of the Ames Salmonella fluctuation test. Nevertheless, the E. coli PQ37 system was slightly more sensitive than the Salmonella assay for detecting genotoxins in the tested samples. Lead, cadmium, manganese, copper, nickel, chromium, arsenic, and zinc contents analyzed in the samples were believed to play a significant role in the observed DNA damage in the microbial assays. The results of this study showed that e-waste simulated and raw leachates, and its contaminated underground water are of potential mutagenic and genotoxic risks to the exposed human populace.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Okunola Alabi
- a Department of Biology , Federal University of Technology , Akure , Ondo State , Nigeria
| | - A Adekunle Bakare
- b Cell Biology and Genetics Unit, Department of Zoology , University of Ibadan , Ibadan , Nigeria
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Luo J, Qi S, Xie X, Gu XWS, Wang J. The assessment of source attribution of soil pollution in a typical e-waste recycling town and its surrounding regions using the combined organic and inorganic dataset. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:3131-3141. [PMID: 27858274 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-8072-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Guiyu is a well-known electronic waste dismantling and recycling town in south China. Concentrations and distribution of the 21 mineral elements and 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) collected there were evaluated. Principal component analyses (PCA) applied to the data matrix of PAHs in the soil extracted three major factors explaining 85.7% of the total variability identified as traffic emission, coal combustion, and an unidentified source. By using metallic or metalloid element concentrations as variables, five principal components (PCs) were identified and accounted for 70.4% of the information included in the initial data matrix, which can be denoted as e-waste dismantling-related contamination, two different geological origins, anthropogenic influenced source, and marine aerosols. Combining the 21 metallic and metalloid element datasets with the 16 PAH concentrations can narrow down the coarse source and decrease the unidentified contribution to soil in the present study and therefore effectively assists the source identification process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Luo
- China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- Guangdong Hydrogeology Battalion, Guangzhou, 510510, China.
| | - Shihua Qi
- China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xianming Xie
- Guangdong Hydrogeology Battalion, Guangzhou, 510510, China
| | - X W Sophie Gu
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Jinji Wang
- Guangdong Hydrogeology Battalion, Guangzhou, 510510, China
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Yekeen TA, Xu X, Zhang Y, Wu Y, Kim S, Reponen T, Dietrich KN, Ho SM, Chen A, Huo X. Assessment of health risk of trace metal pollution in surface soil and road dust from e-waste recycling area in China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:17511-24. [PMID: 27230155 PMCID: PMC5316230 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6896-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Informal recycling of e-waste and the resulting heavy metal pollution has become a serious burden on the ecosystem in Guiyu, China. In this investigation, we evaluated the trace metal concentration of community soil and road dust samples from 11 locations in Guiyu and 5 locations (consisting of residential areas, kindergarten/school, and farm field) in a reference area using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The study spanned four seasons, 2012-2013, with a view to assess the risk associated with e-waste recycling in the study area. The concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, and Mn were 448.73, 0.71, 63.90, and 806.54 mg/kg in Guiyu soil and 589.74, 1.94, 69.71, and 693.74 mg/kg, in the dust, respectively. Pb and Cd values were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) than the reference area, and the mixed model analysis with repeated seasonal measurements revealed soil Pb and Cd levels that were 2.32 and 4.34 times, while the ratios for dust sample were 4.10 and 3.18 times higher than the reference area. Contamination factor, degree of contamination, and pollution load index indicated that all sampling points had a high level of metal contamination except farm land and kindergarten compound. The cumulative hazard index of Pb, Cd, Cr, and Mn for children in exposed area was 0.99 and 1.62 for soil and dust, respectively, suggesting non-cancer health risk potential. The significant accumulation of trace metals in the e-waste recycling area predisposes human life, especially children, to a potentially serious health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taofeek Akangbe Yekeen
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, China
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, China
| | - Yousheng Wu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, China
| | - Stephani Kim
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Kim N Dietrich
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Shuk-Mei Ho
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, 45267, USA.
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, 515041, China.
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Jinan, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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Henn BC, Ettinger AS, Hopkins MR, Jim R, Amarasiriwardena C, Christiani DC, Coull BA, Bellinger DC, Wright RO. Prenatal Arsenic Exposure and Birth Outcomes among a Population Residing near a Mining-Related Superfund Site. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2016; 124:1308-15. [PMID: 26859631 PMCID: PMC4977047 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1510070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited epidemiologic data exist on prenatal arsenic exposure and fetal growth, particularly in the context of co-exposure to other toxic metals. OBJECTIVE We examined whether prenatal arsenic exposure predicts birth outcomes among a rural U.S. population, while adjusting for exposure to lead and manganese. METHODS We collected maternal and umbilical cord blood samples at delivery from 622 mother-infant pairs residing near a mining-related Superfund site in Northeast Oklahoma. Whole blood arsenic, lead, and manganese were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. We modeled associations between arsenic concentrations and birth weight, gestational age, head circumference, and birth weight for gestational age. RESULTS Median (25th-75th percentile) maternal and umbilical cord blood metal concentrations, respectively, were as follows: arsenic, 1.4 (1.0-2.3) and 2.4 (1.8-3.3) μg/L; lead, 0.6 (0.4-0.9) and 0.4 (0.3-0.6) μg/dL; manganese, 22.7 (18.8-29.3) and 41.7 (32.2-50.4) μg/L. We estimated negative associations between maternal blood arsenic concentrations and birth outcomes. In multivariable regression models adjusted for lead and manganese, an interquartile range increase in maternal blood arsenic was associated with -77.5 g (95% CI: -127.8, -27.3) birth weight, -0.13 weeks (95% CI: -0.27, 0.01) gestation, -0.22 cm (95% CI: -0.42, -0.03) head circumference, and -0.14 (95% CI: -0.24, -0.04) birth weight for gestational age z-score units. Interactions between arsenic concentrations and lead or manganese were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS In a population with environmental exposure levels similar to the U.S. general population, maternal blood arsenic was negatively associated with fetal growth. Given the potential for relatively common fetal and early childhood arsenic exposures, our finding that prenatal arsenic can adversely affect birth outcomes is of considerable public health importance. CITATION Claus Henn B, Ettinger AS, Hopkins MR, Jim R, Amarasiriwardena C, Christiani DC, Coull BA, Bellinger DC, Wright RO. 2016. Prenatal arsenic exposure and birth outcomes among a population residing near a mining-related Superfund site. Environ Health Perspect 124:1308-1315; http://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.1510070.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Claus Henn
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Address correspondence to B. Claus Henn, Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health, 715 Albany St., Boston, MA 02118 USA. Telephone: (617) 638-4653.
| | - Adrienne S. Ettinger
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Marianne R. Hopkins
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rebecca Jim
- Local Environmental Action Demanded (L.E.A.D.) Agency, Inc., Vinita, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Chitra Amarasiriwardena
- Division of Environmental Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - David C. Christiani
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brent A. Coull
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David C. Bellinger
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, and
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert O. Wright
- Division of Environmental Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Zhang Y, Huo X, Cao J, Yang T, Xu L, Xu X. Elevated lead levels and adverse effects on natural killer cells in children from an electronic waste recycling area. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 213:143-150. [PMID: 26895538 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) has been proved to exert immunotoxicity to influence immune homeostasis in humans. To monitor the internal Pb level and evaluate its effect on natural killer (NK) cells and cytokine/chemokine concentrations, we recruited 285 preschool children from Guiyu, one of the largest electronic waste (e-waste) destinations and recycling areas in the world, and known to have high concentrations of Pb in the air, soil, water, sediment and plants. A total of 126 preschool children were selected from Haojiang as a reference group. Results showed that children in Guiyu, the exposed area, had higher blood Pb levels and lower percentages of NK cells than children from the reference area. A significantly negative association was found between the percentage of NK cells and increasing Pb levels. Moreover, children in Guiyu area had higher platelet counts and IL-1β concentrations, and lower levels of IL-2, IL-27, MIP-1α and MIP-1β were observed in the exposed children. These changes might not be conducive to the development and differentiation of NK cells. Taken together, the elevated Pb levels result in the lower percentages of NK cells, but also alter the levels of platelets, IL-1β and IL-27, which might be unconducive to the activity and function of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Junjun Cao
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Tian Yang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Long Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
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Xu L, Ge J, Huo X, Zhang Y, Lau ATY, Xu X. Differential proteomic expression of human placenta and fetal development following e-waste lead and cadmium exposure in utero. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 550:1163-1170. [PMID: 26895036 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.11.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) has been associated with a series of physiological problems resulting in fetal growth restriction. We aimed to investigate the effects of Pb and Cd exposure on placental function and the potential mechanisms involved in fetal development. Placental specimens and questionnaires were collected from an e-waste area and a reference area in China. Two-dimensional electrophoresis combined with MALDI-TOF-MS/MS and molecular network relationship were performed to analyze differentially expressed proteins using a compositing sample pool. Compared with the reference group, the exposed group exhibited significantly higher levels of placental Pb and Cd (p<0.01), shorter body length and higher gestational age (p<0.01). After bivariate adjustment in a linear regression model, decreases of 205.05g in weight and 0.44cm in body length were associated with a 10ng/g wt increase in placental Cd. Pb showed a negative trend but lacked statistical significance. Proteomic analysis showed 32 differentially-expressed proteins and were predominantly involved in protein translocation, cytoskeletal structure, and energy metabolism. Fumarate hydratase was down-regulated in the exposed placenta tissues and validated by ELISA. Alterations in placental proteome suggest that imbalances in placental mitochondria respiration might be a vital pathway targeting fetal growth restriction induced by exposure to Cd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China
| | - Jingjing Ge
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China
| | - Andy T Y Lau
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Epigenetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, PR China.
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Zeng X, Xu X, Boezen HM, Huo X. Children with health impairments by heavy metals in an e-waste recycling area. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 148:408-15. [PMID: 26829309 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.10.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Revised: 10/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
E-waste recycling has become a global environmental health issue. Pernicious chemicals escape into the environment due to informal and nonstandard e-waste recycling activities involving manual dismantling, open burning to recover heavy metals and open dumping of residual fractions. Heavy metals derived from electronic waste (e-waste), such as, lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), aluminum (Al) and cobalt (Co), differ in their chemical composition, reaction properties, distribution, metabolism, excretion and biological transmission. Our previous studies showed that heavy metal exposure have adverse effects on children's health including lower birth weight, lower anogenital distance, lower Apgar scores, lower current weight, lower lung function, lower hepatitis B surface antibody levels, higher prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and higher DNA and chromosome damage. Heavy metals influence a number of diverse systems and organs, resulting in both acute and chronic effects on children's health, ranging from minor upper respiratory irritation to chronic respiratory, cardiovascular, nervous, urinary and reproductive disease, as well as aggravation of pre-existing symptoms and disease. These effects of heavy metals on children's health are briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China; Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 1 Hanzeplein, Groningen 9700RB, The Netherlands; Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 1 Hanzeplein, Groningen 9700RB, The Netherlands
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China
| | - H Marike Boezen
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 1 Hanzeplein, Groningen 9700RB, The Netherlands; Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 1 Hanzeplein, Groningen 9700RB, The Netherlands
| | - Xia Huo
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Zeng X, Xu X, Zheng X, Reponen T, Chen A, Huo X. Heavy metals in PM2.5 and in blood, and children's respiratory symptoms and asthma from an e-waste recycling area. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 210:346-53. [PMID: 26803791 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study was to investigate the levels of heavy metals in PM2.5 and in blood, the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and asthma, and the related factors to them. Lead and cadmium in both PM2.5 and blood were significant higher in Guiyu (exposed area) than Haojiang (reference area) (p < 0.05), however, no significant difference was found for chromium and manganese in PM2.5 and in blood. The prevalence of cough, phlegm, dyspnea, and wheeze of children was higher in Guiyu compared to Haojiang (p < 0.05). No significant difference was found for the prevalence of asthma in children between Guiyu and Haojiang. Living in Guiyu was positively associated with blood lead (B = 0.196, p < 0.001), blood cadmium (B = 0.148, p < 0.05) and cough (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.30-4.32; p < 0.01). Blood lead>5 μg/dL was significantly associated with asthma (OR, 9.50; 95% CI, 1.16-77.49). Higher blood chromium and blood manganese were associated with more cough and wheeze, respectively. Our data suggest that living in e-waste exposed area may lead to increased levels of heavy metals, and accelerated prevalence of respiratory symptoms and asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China; Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 1 Hanzeplein, Groningen 9700RB, The Netherlands; Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD (GRIAC), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 1 Hanzeplein, Groningen 9700RB, The Netherlands
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou University, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, China
| | - Tiina Reponen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Aimin Chen
- Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Xia Huo
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Xu X, Chen X, Zhang J, Guo P, Fu T, Dai Y, Lin SL, Huo X. Decreased blood hepatitis B surface antibody levels linked to e-waste lead exposure in preschool children. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2015; 298:122-8. [PMID: 26022852 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Revised: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a widespread environmental contaminant that can profoundly affect the immune system in vaccinated children. To explore the association between blood Pb and HBsAb levels in children chronically exposed to Pb, we measured hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) titers, to reflect the immune response in the children of Guiyu, an electronic and electrical waste (e-waste) recycling area well known for environmental Pb contamination. We performed secondary exploratory analyses of blood Pb levels and plasma HBsAb titers in samples, taken in two phases between 2011 and 2012, from 590 children from Guiyu (exposed group) and Haojiang (reference group). Children living in the exposed area had higher blood Pb levels and lower HBsAb titers compared with children from the reference area. At each phase, generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) showed that HBsAb titers were significantly negatively associated with child blood Pb levels. This work shows that a decreased immune response to hepatitis B vaccine and immune system might have potential harm to children with chronic Pb exposure. Importantly, nearly 50% of chronically exposed children failed to develop sufficient immunity to hepatitis in response to vaccination. Thus different vaccination strategies are needed for children living under conditions of chronic Pb exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaojuan Chen
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Pi Guo
- Department of Public Health, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Tingzao Fu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yifeng Dai
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Stanley L Lin
- Department of Pathophysiology and Key Immunopathology Laboratory of Guangdong Province, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
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Zhao W, Ding L, Gu X, Luo J, Liu Y, Guo L, Shi Y, Huang T, Cheng S. Levels and ecological risk assessment of metals in soils from a typical e-waste recycling region in southeast China. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2015; 24:1947-1960. [PMID: 26318052 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-015-1532-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Due to the high threat to human health and the ecosystem from metals, the levels and distribution of As, Hg, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Mn, V, Sn, Sb, Li and Be in various layers of soil from an e-waste recycling area in Guiyu, China were investigated. The extent of pollution from the metals in soil was assessed using enrichment factors (EFs) and the Nemerow pollution index (P N ). To determine the metals' integrated potential ecological risks, the potential ecological risk index (RI) was chosen. The concentrations of Hg, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb, Sn and Sb were mainly enriched in the topsoil. EF values (2-5) of the elements Hg, Co, Ni, Zn, Sn, Li and Be revealed their moderate enrichment status in the topsoil, derived from e-waste recycling activities. P N presented a decreasing trend in different layers in the order topsoil (0-20 cm) > deep soil (100-150 cm) > middle soil (50-100 cm) > shallow soil (20-50 cm). With higher potential ecological risk factor (E(i)), Hg and Cd are the main contributors to the potential ecological risk. With respect to the RI, all the values in soil from the study area exceeded 300, especially for the soil at sites S2, S4, S5, S7 and S8, where RI was greater than 600. Therefore, immediate remediation of the contaminated soil is necessary to prevent the release of metals and potential ecological harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weituo Zhao
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Ding
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowen Gu
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Jie Luo
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunlang Liu
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Guo
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Shi
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Huang
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China
| | - Shenggao Cheng
- School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, 430074, People's Republic of China.
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Song Q, Zeng X, Li J, Duan H, Yuan W. Environmental risk assessment of CRT and PCB workshops in a mobile e-waste recycling plant. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:12366-73. [PMID: 25903170 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4350-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The mobile e-waste recycling equipment was chosen as the object of this study, including manual dismantling, mechanical separation of cathode ray tubes (CRTs), and printed circuit boards (PCBs) in the two independent workshops. To determine the potential environmental contamination, the noise, the heavy metals (Cu, Cd, Pb), and the environmental impacts of the e-waste recycling processes in the two workshops of the mobile plant have been evaluated in this paper. This study determined that when control measures are employed, the noise within the two workshops (<80 dB) will meet the national standards. In the CRT workshop, Pb was the most polluting metal, with 2.3 μg/m(3) and 10.53 mg/g in the air and floor dust, respectively. The result of a health risk assessment shows that noncancerous effects are possible for Pb (hazard index (HI) = 3.54 in the CRT workshop and HI = 1.27 in the PCB workshop). The carcinogenic risks to workers for Cd are relatively light in both the workshops. From the results of life cycle assessment (LCA), it can be seen that there was an environmental benefit from the e-waste recycling process as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingbin Song
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Rm. 805, Sino-Italian Ecological Energy Efficient Building, Beijing, 100084, China
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Xu X, Zeng X, Boezen HM, Huo X. E-waste environmental contamination and harm to public health in China. Front Med 2015; 9:220-8. [PMID: 25808646 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-015-0391-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The adverse effects of electronic waste (e-waste) on the human body have stirred up concern in recent years. China is one of the countries that confront serious pollution and human exposure of e-waste, and the majority of the population is exposed to potentially hazardous substances that are derived from informal e-waste recycling processes. This study reviews recent reports on human exposure to e-waste in China, with particular focus on exposure routes (e.g., inhalation and ingestion) and several toxicities of human (e.g., endocrine system, respiratory system, reproductive system, developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity, and genetic toxicity). Pieces of evidence that associate e-waste exposure with human health effects in China are assessed. The role of toxic heavy metals (e.g., lead, cadmium, chromium, mercury, and nickel) and organic pollutants (e.g., polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAHs), bisphenol A (BPA)) on human health is also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, China
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Liu C, Huo X, Lin P, Zhang Y, Li W, Xu X. Association between blood erythrocyte lead concentrations and hemoglobin levels in preschool children. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:9233-40. [PMID: 25588596 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3992-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Despite decades of intensive research, lead (Pb) toxicity still remains one of the most frequently investigated subjects in environmental health. Whole blood lead (BPb) is usually used to evaluate Pb exposure for both screening and clinical diagnosis. However, it is generally recognized that BPb is not a sensitive biomarker for Pb exposure in hematological studies. Considering hematocrit (HCT) variation in different situations, HCT-adjusted BPb or erythrocyte Pb (EPb) may be more relevant when evaluating the hematotoxicity of blood Pb. Data collected from 855 preschool children, 3-7 years of age, allowed us to examine the relationship between EPb and hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Multivariate linear regression was performed to determine the significance of EPb as predictor of Hb after covariate adjustment; then, mean differences of Hb levels between quartiles of EPb and BPb (1st quartile as reference) were determined using ANOVA followed by Student's t test. The dose-response curve between EPb and HCT was plotted using locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS) method. A doubling of EPb was associated with a 2.44 g/L decrease in Hb level. Compared to the 1st quartile group of EPb, the 3rd and 4th quartile groups showed significant decreases in Hb levels (3.01 and 3.97 g/L, respectively). Compared to the 1st quartile group of BPb, the 2nd quartile group showed a decrease in Hb levels (0.63 g/L), while the 3rd and 4th quartile groups showed increases in Hb levels (0.78 and 1.45 g/L, respectively). Increased EPb levels are significantly associated with decreased Hb levels in preschool children. HCT must be taken into consideration in investigating the hematological effects of Pb. Compared to BPb, EPb or HCT-adjusted BPb appear as a more effective biomarker to interpret the hematotoxicity of lead. Furthermore, blood erythrocytes are not only a repository of Pb but also a primary target of its toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhua Liu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd., Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
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Xu X, Chiung YM, Lu F, Qiu S, Ji M, Huo X. Associations of cadmium, bisphenol A and polychlorinated biphenyl co-exposure in utero with placental gene expression and neonatal outcomes. Reprod Toxicol 2015; 52:62-70. [PMID: 25687722 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2015.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In utero co-exposure to endocrine disrupting compounds can perturb fetal development. However, the effect of co-exposure on pivotal regulatory genes has seldom been investigated. We explored the effects of in utero co-exposure to cadmium (Cd), bisphenol A (BPA) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) on master regulator genes. We recruited 284 healthy pregnant women, of whom 262 provided both cord blood and placenta samples, and 200 had all measurements taken. Placental Cd, cord blood BPA and total PCBs in the exposed group were higher than a reference group. KISS1 expression level in placental tissue was threefold higher in the exposed group than in the reference, and was positively associated with all toxicants. Leptin and leptin receptor expression were also significantly higher, but were only associated with BPA. From our findings, we conclude that lower birth weight is correlated with Cd and PCBs, and may result from the increased KISS1 mRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yin Mei Chiung
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaoshan Qiu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Minhui Ji
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China.
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Laborde A, Tomasina F, Bianchi F, Bruné MN, Buka I, Comba P, Corra L, Cori L, Duffert CM, Harari R, Iavarone I, McDiarmid MA, Gray KA, Sly PD, Soares A, Suk WA, Landrigan PJ. Children's health in Latin America: the influence of environmental exposures. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:201-9. [PMID: 25499717 PMCID: PMC4348745 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1408292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic diseases are increasing among children in Latin America. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS To examine environmental risk factors for chronic disease in Latin American children and to develop a strategic initiative for control of these exposures, the World Health Organization (WHO) including the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Collegium Ramazzini, and Latin American scientists reviewed regional and relevant global data. RESULTS Industrial development and urbanization are proceeding rapidly in Latin America, and environmental pollution has become widespread. Environmental threats to children's health include traditional hazards such as indoor air pollution and drinking-water contamination; the newer hazards of urban air pollution; toxic chemicals such as lead, asbestos, mercury, arsenic, and pesticides; hazardous and electronic waste; and climate change. The mix of traditional and modern hazards varies greatly across and within countries reflecting industrialization, urbanization, and socioeconomic forces. CONCLUSIONS To control environmental threats to children's health in Latin America, WHO, including PAHO, will focus on the most highly prevalent and serious hazards-indoor and outdoor air pollution, water pollution, and toxic chemicals. Strategies for controlling these hazards include developing tracking data on regional trends in children's environmental health (CEH), building a network of Collaborating Centres, promoting biomedical research in CEH, building regional capacity, supporting development of evidence-based prevention policies, studying the economic costs of chronic diseases in children, and developing platforms for dialogue with relevant stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia Laborde
- Faculty of Medicine, University of the Republic of Uruguay, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Sabbaghi M, Esmaeilian B, Raihanian Mashhadi A, Behdad S, Cade W. An investigation of used electronics return flows: a data-driven approach to capture and predict consumers storage and utilization behavior. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2015; 36:305-315. [PMID: 25534039 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2014.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Consumers often have a tendency to store their used, old or un-functional electronics for a period of time before they discard them and return them back to the waste stream. This behavior increases the obsolescence rate of used still-functional products leading to lower profitability that could be resulted out of End-of-Use (EOU) treatments such as reuse, upgrade, and refurbishment. These types of behaviors are influenced by several product and consumer-related factors such as consumers' traits and lifestyles, technology evolution, product design features, product market value, and pro-environmental stimuli. Better understanding of different groups of consumers, their utilization and storage behavior and the connection of these behaviors with product design features helps Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and recycling and recovery industry to better overcome the challenges resulting from the undesirable storage of used products. This paper aims at providing insightful statistical analysis of Electronic Waste (e-waste) dynamic nature by studying the effects of design characteristics, brand and consumer type on the electronics usage time and end of use time-in-storage. A database consisting of 10,063 Hard Disk Drives (HDD) of used personal computers returned back to a remanufacturing facility located in Chicago, IL, USA during 2011-2013 has been selected as the base for this study. The results show that commercial consumers have stored computers more than household consumers regardless of brand and capacity factors. Moreover, a heterogeneous storage behavior is observed for different brands of HDDs regardless of capacity and consumer type factors. Finally, the storage behavior trends are projected for short-time forecasting and the storage times are precisely predicted by applying machine learning methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Sabbaghi
- Industrial and Systems Engineering Department, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, 437 Bell Hall, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | - Behzad Esmaeilian
- Healthcare Systems Engineering Institute, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Ardeshir Raihanian Mashhadi
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, 437 Bell Hall, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | - Sara Behdad
- Industrial and Systems Engineering Department, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, 437 Bell Hall, Buffalo, NY, USA; Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, State University of New York, University at Buffalo, 437 Bell Hall, Buffalo, NY, USA.
| | - Willie Cade
- PC Rebuilder and Recyclers, 4734 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60651-3322, USA.
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